Care Model Development for The Home-bound Elderly and The Bedridden by Participation of The Ethics Club of Thungmaphrao Health Promation Hospital In Phang-Nga Province

Abstract

The objective of the study is to study the situation of health care for the home-bound elderly and the bedridden by participating of the Ethics Club of Thungmaphrao Health Promation Hospital, Phangnga Thaimuang District, Phangnga Province. The sample group was consisted of 60 interested persons (stakeholders) and 18 home-bound elderly and bedridden persons chosen by purposive sampling. The research tools used in data collection were an in-depth interview form, an evaluation form for long-term health problem screening in the elderly, and a health assessment and continuous nursing home form. Duration of the study was from October 2015 to September 2019. Quantitative data were analyzed by using frequency and percentage values; and qualitative data were analyzed based on specified issues. The study found that the problems of the home-bound elderly and the bedridden in Thungmaphrao area were mostly associated with chronic condition and disabilities. There was no common caring pattern for the elderly and the bedridden. With the involvement of the Ethics Club of Thungmaphrao Health Promation Hospital, Phangnga Thaimuang District, Phangnga Province, there was a systematic improvement on the care together with a monitoring and continuing development system, joined by the health team and local statke holders. The care guidelines were implemented in 3 steps: (1) information preparation from situation analysis on the home care for the elderly and the bedridden; (2) creation of a care system for the home-bound elderly and the bedridden; and (3) reflection of the practice. In addition, there was a process for inspection, improvement and evaluation of the model. Assessment of model revealed that it was satisfied by 97.11 percent of the home-bound and the bedridden elderly; and improvement of activities of daily living was observed. There was a reduction in the number of the elderly who were unable to help themselves. The home-bound elderly and the bedridden persons had improved their self-care behaviors and better self-reliance. In conclusion, the care model developed by the Ethics Club of Thungmaphrao Health Promation Hospital had provided clear, appropriate and practical guidelines for the health team to implement for better care and support for the home-bound elderly and the bedridden.