Development of Happiness for Thai Elderly in Chaiso Sub-District with Buddhist Principles.

Abstract

The objectives of the research were (๑) to study the Buddhist principles on development of well-being for the elderly, (๒) to study the development of the elderly well-being in Chai So Sub-district, Chum Phae District, Khon Kaen Province, and (๓) to analyze the development of the elderly well-being, based on the Buddhist principles. The study was engaged in the qualitative approach, and the descriptive explanation was utilized.

The research findings were as follows:

1. The study of Buddhist principles on development of the elderly well-being revealed that there were some development processes in the community, which encouraged the development of physical environmental relationship, created good relations for the society and the family to associate well with others, avoided such events or situations leading to loneliness and depression, strengthened and thrived human minds with morality. In addition, the development processes could develop the elderly to think all things critically and correctly, to know and understand everything in reality, to live a mindful life without carelessness, and to treat well to protect themselves.


2. The study of Buddhism-based development of well-being for the elderly in Chai So Sub-district, Chum Phae District, Khon Kaen Province, demonstrated that the elderly were supported to have moderation in food and adequate rest according to the body’s needs. As well, the elderly were promoted to develop and prosper their minds with virtues, and to realize the conditions of the world and the human mind and body in reality.


3. Apart from the analysis, it was found that the elderly were provided with the adequate and hygienic food, the appropriate exercise for their age. In addition, a religious organization, especially a temple, was promoted as the community’s center in order to organize the family activities on important days, or propagate new knowledge, beneficial for a living life.