Roles of Buddhist Monks in Chanthaburi Province in Participation to Develop the Quality of Life of Older Adults

Abstract

This research aimed to study the roles of Buddhist monks in Chanthaburi province in the participation to develop the quality of life of older adults and to propose good practices for Buddhist monks in Chanthaburi Province in the participation to develop the quality of life of older adults. This research study used interviews with 11 Buddhist monks in Chanthaburi Province along with group discussions with 10 representatives comprising monks, experts, and scholars, representatives from agencies involved in improving the quality of life of older adults. The participants were selected by purposive sampling based on the specified criteria. The research instruments included structured interview questions and focus group discussion guidelines. The qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis. The findings are as follows: 1. Most Buddhist monks in Chanthaburi province play important roles in developing the quality of life of older adults in several aspects. The monks take the roles of spiritual leaders, counselors, and major coordinators in social and community welfare activities. The roles in developing the quality of life of older adults can be classified into four main areas. 1) In physical health, 2) In mental health, 3) In social relationships, and 4) In the environment. 2. According to the study, good practices for Buddhist monks in Chanthaburi Province in the participation to develop the quality of life of older adults involve four key areas. 1) There should be the creation of understanding to enable the monks to recognize and be aware of the importance of their involvement in developing the quality of life of older adults. 2) The monks should create partnerships and build networks with government sections, other religious groups, and the local community to collaborate in developing the quality of life of older adults. 3) The monks should regularly organize meetings and planning sessions with monks and their partners to coordinate in developing the quality of life of older adults. 4) The monks should join activities in every sub-district, focusing on the same three main areas: spiritual support, social connections, and holistic health care.