A Model for Strengthening Communities to Enhance the Quality of Life of Vulnerable Families in Thatalat Subdistrict, Sampran District, Nakhon Pathom Province
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Abstract
This research article aimed to (1) examine the quality of life of vulnerable families in Thatalat Subdistrict, Sampran District, Nakhon Pathom Province, (2) design an integrated social empowerment model for vulnerable families, and (3) enhance the quality of life of vulnerable families through the application of appropriate social welfare interventions. The study employed a participatory action research (PAR) approach, engaging key informants and participants who were directly involved and had a stake in the care of vulnerable families in Thatalat Subdistrict. Twenty participants were purposively selected. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and family baseline records. Data analysis was conducted using content analysis and the findings were presented through narrative storytelling.
The research findings revealed that vulnerable families faced overlapping challenges across economic, social, health, and intra-family relationship dimensions, particularly among the elderly and impoverished children who were unable to access their rights and welfare due to limitations in documentation, knowledge, and technology. Bureaucratic systems remain insufficiently responsive to local contexts, despite the presence of strong social capital and volunteer spirit within the community. The integrated social empowerment model should focus simultaneously on economic development, education, mental health, and community networking, emphasizing participation and trust in public service systems. Enhancing quality of life requires structural changes facilitated through community engagement, utilizing individualized data and collective learning, such as discussion forums and interactive feedback sessions. Moreover, developing caregivers for dependent individuals serves as a key mechanism for building human capital to sustainably support an aging society.
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