Factors Affecting Health Behavior of the Elderly in the Elderly Community in NongSumsak Municipality, Ban Bueng District, Chonburi Province

Abstract

   This study aimed to examine the levels of health behaviors among the elderly in the Elderly Club of Nong Sam Sak Municipality, Ban Bueng District, Chonburi Province. The study focused on health behaviors in the aspects of health awareness, dietary habits, physical exercise, stress management, and health practices during illness. Data were collected using questionnaires from a sample of 119 elderly individuals. Descriptive statistics, including frequency, percentage, mean (𝑥̅), and standard deviation (S.D.), were used for data analysis.
   Findings Demographics: The majority of the elderly participants were female. Most were aged between 60-69 years.The majority had completed primary education and most participants were married. The primary income range was 5,000–10,000 THB, with most income sourced from children or relatives. 58.10% of the elderly had chronic illnesses. Dietary Habits: Mean (𝑥̅) = 27.96, S.D. = 2.58, classified as moderate (61.40%). Physical Exercise: Mean (𝑥̅) = 21.65, S.D. = 1.99, classified as moderate (99.70%). Stress Management: Mean (𝑥̅) = 21.57, S.D. = 2.18, classified as moderate (79.60%). Health Practices during Illness: Mean (𝑥̅) = 21.42, S.D. = 2.13, classified as moderate (80.20%). Overall Health Behaviors: Mean (𝑥̅) = 92.59, S.D. = 4.45, classified as moderate (78.70%). When comparing the differences between personal information and health behaviors, it was found that different statuses, levels of education, and income are associated with variations in both illness-related health behaviors and overall health behaviors. These factors also have an impact on differences in stress management.