The Guidelines to Participatory Innovation Development of Local Administrative Organization to Improve the Quality of Life of The Elderly: Case Studies of Local Administrative Organization in Udon Thani Province

Abstract

The research study on The Guidelines to Participatory Innovation Development of Local Administrative Organization to Improve the Quality of Life of The Elderly: Case Studies of Local Administrative Organization in Udon Thani Province was conducted using a mixed methods research methodology, using both quantitative research and qualitative research.(1) Strategy: The Na Phu Elderly School developed its strategies in collaboration with Boromarajonani College of Nursing, Udon Thani, focusing on enhancing the learning experiences and quality of life for elderly individuals facing loneliness and depression. This initiative received support from the Community Research Project of the National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT). Similarly, the Elderly Schools in Pako Municipality and Nong Bua Municipality concentrated on improving the quality of life for the elderly by fostering skill development, promoting good health, and addressing mental health issues through educational and social activities. (2) Ideas: The Na Phu Elderly School introduced new ideas by encouraging knowledge exchange and experiential learning through activities such as counseling, vocational training, and the use of communication technologies. In contrast, the Pako Municipality Elderly School emphasized the promotion of the elderly’s role within the community and organized recreational activities to foster community love and cooperation. The Nong Bua Municipality Elderly School focused on reducing loneliness and enhancing the well-being of the elderly through technology-based skills training. (3) Selection and Prioritization: All three elderly schools employed systematic approaches to prioritize and select the most effective ideas that address the specific needs of the elderly. (4) Implementation: The selected ideas were implemented to improve the elderly’s quality of life, with continuous evaluation and refinement of these projects and (5) People and Organization: The three elderly schools enhanced their innovation management by collaborating with external agencies possessing the necessary expertise and resources to further develop the quality of life for the elderly.

Despite these efforts, the study identifies several limitations in the participatory innovation development process, including unclear strategic planning, incomplete surveys and needs assessments, fragmented communication, and inconsistent resource support. Additionally, the lack of systematic evaluation and long-term impact monitoring poses challenges to the sustainability and operational effectiveness of these projects, highlighting the need for strategic adjustments aligned with the current needs of the elderly.