Aim-on Charrurangsri. The development of the essential living skills for successful aging among Thai urban elders. Doctoral Degree(Population Education). Mahidol University. Mahidol University Library and Knowledge Center. : Mahidol University, 2012.
The development of the essential living skills for successful aging among Thai urban elders
Abstract:
The present study aims to investigate what constitutes essential living skills for successful aging in the urban areas of Thailand, as well as to formulate guidelines for developing such essential living skills for urban elderly people. A mix of qualitative and quantitative research methods were employed, in which the target group was the elderly who demonstrate good physical and cognitive health, have been living for more than five years in the two Nakorn-level municipalities in Nonthaburi Province, and regularly participate in activities held by senior clubs in the areas. In-depth interviews were initially carried out, from which data on different components of the urban elders essential living skills were determined. This data was used when developing a questionnaire that was administered to 362 randomly selected individuals. The results of the survey questionnaire were subsequently analyzed using descriptive statistics, and used to develop guidelines for the formulation of a model programme of activities [with a focus on developing the elderlys social interaction skills]. Finally, the programme was evaluated by a panel of experts consisting of representatives of the elderly and specialists in adult learning, and later revised based on their input. The study revealed that essential living skills for successful aging in the urban areas consisted of economic skills, health skills, cognitive and psychological skills, social interaction skills, and spiritual skills. When breaking down each category, the top-ranked skills were the ability to manage ones expenses to match income, the ability to avoid unhealthy habits, the ability to use reasoning when making a decision, the ability to understand or be aware of one's own and others emotions, the ability to understand and have empathy for others feelings, and self-esteem. With regard to approaches to developing such living skills, the study found the most appropriate formats to be informal and non-formal learning, which incorporate hands-on workshops or demonstrations that cover the topics of healthcare, social adaptability, religious teachings, art and culture, recreation and hobbies. Outcomes can be evaluated by regular follow-ups, interviews, and observation. In sum, there should be continuing efforts to inculcate in every individual from an early age the essential skills that encompass economic, health, cognitive and psychological, social interaction, and spiritual areas. A variety of educational programmes that are flexible and informal in nature should also be arranged for the elderly to enhance their life skills.
Mahidol University. Mahidol University Library and Knowledge Center