Strengthening for the Social Health of the to Be Healthy, and Clearly Mind of Ban Khlong Muen Chaem Community, Bangkok

Abstract

This study aimed to: (1) analyze the livelihood of the elderly in terms of physical and mental well-being; (2) develop a model for strengthening the social well-being of the elderly; and (3) implement activities that promote social well-being among the elderly in the community.
A participatory action research approach was employed, using the concepts of holistic well-being and community participation as the research framework. The study was conducted in the Khlong Muen Chaem community, Bang Khae District, Bangkok, with a purposive sample of 30 participants, including elderly residents, community leaders, and related stakeholders. Data collection tools comprised in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and participant observation, while data were analyzed through content analysis and presented descriptively.

The findings revealed that the elderly led simple lives grounded in Buddhist principles, practiced self-care, and maintained strong interactions with their families and communities, resulting in physical, mental, intellectual, and social well-being. The appropriate model for promoting elderly well-being integrated vocational training, intergenerational activities, knowledge-sharing forums, and community learning systems that emphasized the value of the elderly. Activity implementation was successful when supported by community participation, with prototype activities such as health spaces, intergenerational forums, and joint tree planting fostering a sense of ownership and strengthening community relationships.

The study contributes a model for enhancing elderly well-being that combines Buddhist principles with community participation. This model can be adapted and applied in other communities with similar characteristics.