Raising the Level of Enhancing the Balance of Buddhist Health for the Elderly

Abstract

The research had three objectives: 1) to study the learning behaviors and health of the elderly, 2) to promote Buddhist health balance among the elderly, and 3) to enhance the Buddhist health balance of the elderly in Tambon Nong No, Amphoe Kranuan, Changwat Khon Kaen. The research employed qualitative methods, utilizing tools such as in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, action research, and participant observation. Data was collected through interviews with the target group, with 8 persons. to study their learning behaviors and health, developing a model to enhance the Buddhist health balance of the elderly through focus group discussions with experts, implementing the model with the target group, and employing participant observation and interviews to monitor and evaluate the results through content analysis and descriptive presentation.
The research findings revealed: 1) The elderly target group experienced physical health imbalances, suffering from various ailments, as well as mental health issues. 2) The promotion of Buddhist health balance among the elderly should integrate modern concepts, namely the "3E’s" (Eating, Exercise, Emotion). 3) Buddhist principles, specifically the "Four Bhāvanās" and Sati (mindfulness), forming the model "3E’s, 4B’s, and 1S. When the elderly adhered to this model for a period of 3 months, they achieved better health balance both physically and mentally.