FACTORS INFLUENCING THE HAPPINESS OF OLDER ADULTS IN NONTHABURI PROVINCE, THAILAND
Keywords:
Older Adults, Happiness, Social Support, Quality of Life, Nonthaburi Province, Qualitative ResearchAbstract
This qualitative research aimed to explore the factors influencing the happiness of older adults in Nonthaburi Province, Thailand. The key informants consisted of ten Thai older adults aged 60 years and above who were members of elderly associations in Nonthaburi Province. Participants were selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using in-depth interviews. The researcher conducted individual interviews and analyzed the data using content analysis.
The findings revealed that the happiness of older adults in Nonthaburi Province was influenced by three major themes: social support, quality of life, and the social environment. Most participants reflected that receiving love, care, assistance, and emotional support from family members, relatives, and community members played a significant role in enhancing their sense of self-worth, psychological well-being, and overall happiness in life.
In addition, participants emphasized the importance of quality of life in terms of physical health, mental health, economic stability, and social participation. Good health, the ability to maintain independence, and opportunities to engage in social activities were identified as important factors contributing to happiness among older adults. At the same time, participants reported that health limitations, financial burdens, and changes in family and social structures negatively affected their happiness and quality of life. The study indicates that the happiness of older adults is shaped by the integration of social support, a good quality of life, and a supportive social environment that enables them to live with dignity and meaning. These findings provide valuable insights for policymakers and relevant stakeholders in developing strategies and policies to enhance the quality of life and happiness of older adults in the future.
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