Authors : Chanitta Soommaht, Songkoon Chantachon and Paiboon Boonchai
Abstract: In the past, Thai-Isan families were large and took care of each other. Sickness within the family would be nurtured by family members and care. Life was simple and the economy was self sustainable and sufficient. Society was peaceful and children obeyed their parents. The elderly were taken cared of by their children and grandchildren gave elders respects and love. Currently, the trend has changed and society is filled with new technologies, globalization, politics has rapidly changed, transportation and educational advancements. Communities prefer to send their spouse abroad for education. Local communities are faced with increases in expenses and inadequate income to match. Many individuals have ventured outside the community in search of higher wages and income, while leaving elderly members to stay at home raising their grand children. Government agencies and community organizations have given efforts in providing policies and by appropriating funds for support and welfare homes, but the current processes lack clarity and coverage. Community organizations are an important key factor in the success of public policies that will bring about the successful development of elderly care. Community activities provide an opportunity for elderly citizens to participate giving them honor and help them to realize their importance and value to society. Obstacles that still remains is the ratio of staff to elderly citizens is inadequate and the lack of budget to support management. Short term measures to tackle this problem is the participation of all involved parties in nurturing awareness in the importance of elderly welfare, cooperation and diligence in building a healthy society based on sustainable economic principles.
Chanitta Soommaht, Songkoon Chantachon and Paiboon Boonchai, 2009. Developing Model of Health Care Management for the Elderly by Community Participation in Isan. The Social Sciences, 4: 439-442.