Social support models for elderly’s well-being in Kanchanaburi province

Abstract

The objective of this research is to study and analyze social support including search for social support models for the. It is a qualitative research that collects data from in-depth individual interviews with 15 elderly and group discussions with elderly representatives and other 12 involved persons. The data collection also includes field observations and notes. We use content-based data analysis, interpretation and describing from the phenomena that occurred. The results reveal that: Social support for the elderly’s well-being based on (1) self-level or self-reliance that was an attempt to help themselves as much as possible. This to make oneself feel valued, to have self-empowerment and to develop oneself. 2) Family level is the closeness with the elderly who plays an important role in problems solving of physical, mental and social suffering as well as to promote happiness of the elderly in all dimensions. (3) Community and local level is the cooperation of groups of people involved in implementation of the care and support the happiness creation that is consistent with family and community problems. There are 3 characteristics of social support models for the elderly’s well-being: (1) Family characteristic which is the closeness of all family members. It takes love, gratitude, coordination or asking for help as well as the support from both inside and outside the family in every way. (2) The nature of the community is a cooperation and coordination the benefits of both the family and stakeholders in the community in order to strengthen the social support for family quality. It focuses on social participation and well-being development. (3) Characteristic of social networks is an integrated work of 3 large groups that consists of health, social service and local community. These attend to care and social support at the family level, area level and provincial level emphasizing the policy integration to practice.