The Model for Accident Prevention and Severity Reduction in Older People of Mae Sariang Municipality, Mae Sariang District, Mae Hong Son Province

Abstract

This qualitative study aimed at (1) studying the way for prevention and reduction of accidental severity among elderly people by community that conforms to the community cultural context, and (2) synthesizing the affecting factors on prevention and reduction of accidental violence among the elderly by the community under the sociocultural context in Mae Sariang municipality, Mae Hong Son Province, Thailand. There were 48 elderly persons and families as well as 56 relevant people participated in the study. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, focus group discussion, participant observation and non- participant observation. Data analysis was conducted by content analysis and verified by community leaders and members. The results revealed two measures for prevention and reduction of accidental violence among the elderly: (1) prevention and reduction of accidental violence among the elderly by themselves and their family, and (2) prevention and reduction of accidental violence among the elderly by community which consist of three parts including prevention and reduction of accidental violence by local administrative organizations, by social groups, and by health care units. In addition, there were six relevant activities of community movement namely, (1) creating participation and building teams in the community, (2) collecting data and utilization data for prevention management, (3) reinforcing social group for community management, (4) creating volunteer culture for caring of the elderly in community, (5) promoting quick accessibility to secure services, and (6) integrating of the elderly support into aroutine work. These are the important means for the community nurses who attend to improve health in accordance with the social and cultural context for safety and reduction of risk factors that cause of accidents which lead to disability and death.