Coordination of Community-Based Activities for Older Adults and Family Members to Reduce Depression: A Case Study in Nong Khai, Thailand

Abstract

This study aims to decrease the depression of older adults in the Bo Hinn community, Nong Khai province and establish community’s activities to promote social empathy based on Buddhism. The sample used consist of 20 older adults in in Bo Hinn community. The data were collected by various instruments and combined with a questionnaire for older adults. Ten community activities to reduce depression under the sufficiency economy philosophy and interviews about self-value perspectives after the participatory activities were conducted. Statistics of frequency and percentage were used for data analysis. Qualitative data was analyzed by using a content analysis. Based on the research findings, it can be affirmed that the depression of older adults decreased after their participation. The sickness perception of older adults was reduced by 30 percent. The older adults had good family relationships in 95 percent of cases. The daily life routine of older adults was at 100 percent both before and after participation. However, it was found that the depression of older adults before the activities was low. In addition, it can be addressed that the number of older adults who had no depression increase from 25 percent to 50 percent. Based on the interview, it can be revealed that the community activities accelerated the happiness due to the interaction with family members and other related people. The sample also reflected that not only the happiness but also decreased stress and more self-value led to the community pride.