Resilience Experiences of Elderly in Tsunami Disaster - ประสบการณ์การฟื้นสภาพของผู้สูงอายุที่ประสบภัยพิบัติสึนามิ

Abstract

          The purpose of this study was aimed at exploring the meaning and experiences of elderly vis á vis Tsunami disaster, by using qualitative method of phenomenology. Data were collected by indepth interview of key informants purposively selected. Setting of the study was Takua Pa district, Phangnga province. Data were analyzed by using Colaizzi’s method. It was found that the meaning of resilience described by elderly victims of tsunami disaster, were comprised of 3 themes : 1) living with hope, while moving on with perception of meaningfullife; 2) Dharma as a guidance, bearing disappointments, mindfulness in problem solving, and having morals; 3) living with understanding, self reliance, having a sense of humor, and improving their outlook. Resilience experiences of the elderly in Tsunami disaster were comprised of 3 themes. 1) Challenging phase was the phase that the elderly had to face with changes which came within self and from outside; 2) Maintaining phase was the phase of acceptance of changes, and 3) Firming stage was being reconciled with oneself and went on purposefully.

         This study provides an understanding about the meanings and experiences of elderly facing with tsunami disaster. Health providers could apply the findings to support and provide holistic health care for elderly in the aftermath of the major disaster.

Key words: resilience, tsunami disaster, elderly persons