THE HOLISTIC HEALTH CARE MODEL OF THE ELDERLY ACCORDING TO THERAVADA BUDDHIST PHILOSOPHY

Abstract

        The objectives of this Qualitative research article were as follows: 1. to study the holistic health care of the elderly; 2. to study the holistic health care of the elderly according to Theravada Buddhist philosophy; 3. to integrate the holistic health care of the elderly according to Theravada Buddhist philosophy; and 4. to present explicit knowledge about a model for holistic health care for the elderly according to Theravada Buddhist philosophy. 17 key informants were interviewed using a structured interview form. Content analysis was performed and descriptive data was presented.

        The research results were found as follows: 1. Overall, taking care of the health of the elderly namely: 1) the physical aspect (food, exercise, and hygiene); 2) the social aspect (love others); 3) the mental aspect (thinking positively); and 4) the intellectual aspect (never stop learning; 2. Overall, taking care of the health of the elderly according to Theravada Buddhist philosophy namely: 1) Physical development: moderation in 4 factors; 2) Moral development: keep the precepts; 3) Emotional development: being aware of emotions; and 4) Intellectual development: discussion with knowledgeable people, and practicing letting go; 3. Integrating holistic health care for the elderly according to Theravada Buddhist philosophy namely: 1) Physical aspect: apply the principles of physical development; 2) Social aspect: apply the principles of moral development; 3) Mental aspect: apply the principles of emotional development; and 4) Intellectual aspect: apply the principles of intellectual development; and 4. This new knowledge is called the “4G model" - G1 = Good physical health; G2 = Good mental health; G3 = Good social health; and G4 = Good intellectual health. This can be applied in taking care  of the elderly.