Holistic Health Practices of Rural Thai Homebound Older Adults: A Focused Ethnographic Study

Abstract

Introduction: Supporting independent functioning of homebound, chronically ill older adults (HOAs) is a major concern across cultures. In Thailand, actions HOAs take to remain independent and maintain their holistic (mental, physical, and spiritual) health is understudied. Therefore, we explored self-care practices used by rural Thai HOAs to maintain their independence. Methods: We used a focused ethnographic approach, recruiting HOAs, their families, and community members from a rural area in Southern Thailand. Data were analyzed using content analysis. Results: Sixteen HOAs and 23 family/community members participated. Three themes emerged: self-care to stay healthy, sharing life with family and society in a positive way, incorporating both folk and modern medicine to maintain health. Factors facilitating holistic health practices were supportive family network, Thai cultural beliefs, community strength and support, and health care services. Discussion/Conclusions: These findings may help health care professionals develop interventions supporting holistic health practices of Thai HOAs to remain independent.

Health practice among Muslim homebound older adults living in the Southern Thai community: An ethnographic study

“…Getting visits and encouragement from neighbors was associated with the health of the Muslim older adults living at home, particularly being visited at home by healthcare workers. This is consistent with previous studies (Detthippornpong et al, 2022 ; Phithakkumpol, 2004 ), which found that village health volunteers in the community often acted in the form of kinship and could easily reach the older adults and support the work of nurses following home visits. All participants received a pension from the government; some received a disability allowance, but most received money from their children, who provided for personal expenses.…”

“…The ability to lead a whole and balanced life close to family, friends, nature, and activities were necessary for their feelings of good health and well-being. Therefore, Muslim older adults living at home performed self-care through natural methods, similar to a previous study (Detthippornpong et al, 2022 ).…”

“…In addition, a group interview with Muslim health professionals took place at the local hospital to gain more knowledge about the health services offered to people at the study site. All instruments were allowed to be used after receiving permission from the authors of a previous study in a Thai Buddhist homebound group (Detthippornpong et al, 2022 ) and were modified for use among Thai Muslim older adults.…”

“…Older adults living at home may enjoy life and wish to continue life as long as possible, but there has been limited study on HOAs. A previous study in a southern Thai province showed that the Thai HOAs were able to take care of themselves at home despite some health limitations (Detthippornpong et al, 2022 ). Some perceived themselves as a healthy group and able to control their illness by performing self-care, sharing a positive view of life with others, and integrating their beliefs in folk with modern medicine to maintain health.…”