Integrating Buddhist Principles and Activities to Promote Health and Disease Prevention of Depression in the Elderly in Chiang Mai Province

Abstract

            The purposes of this study were: 1) to examine the condition of Dharma principles and Buddhist activities in promoting health and preventing depression in the elderly in Chiang Mai and 2) to examine the condition of integrating Buddhist principles and activities for health promotion and prevention of depression in the elderly in Chiang Mai. This is a mixed research method. Both quantitative research and qualitative research samples were used in the research by specific sampling method by choosing a specific study of the Sangha governing Mae Sa Subdistrict, the Abbot of Mae Sa Luang Temple and monks and preachers of the School for the Elderly, Mae Sa Sub-district, Mae Rim District, Chiang Mai Province by using the interview form together with group conversations. This was the tool for collecting information. As for the quantitative data, 85 questionnaires were collected and qualitative data were collected to coordinate in-depth interview appointments. In the quantitative data, computer statistical analysis was used to find the percentage, mean and standard deviation. Descriptive analysis methods were used to find qualitative data.

            The results revealed that most of the elderly people in the community did not have depression. Schools for the Elderly were promoted by joint network partners, namely the Subdistrict Administrative Organization, the Sangha, the Tambon Health Promoting Hospital and preliminary ordinance training activities for the elderly. These partners help improve health and prevent depressive symptoms in the elderly by integrating Dharma principles by which the elderly does not fall in love with materialism in this era of globalization. The principles of Dharma can also alleviate depression through Buddhist activities by practicing meditation. Samatha meditation helps to suppress all defilements and feelings. Introspection through Ariyas: standing, walking, sitting and lying as suitable for the elderly is also helpful. Research Recommendations: Sangha administrators should pay more attention to the promotion and development of the elderly, and the community should work together to devise a plan for the development of the elderly in the community for continuous care of the elderly by usingDharma principles and Buddhist activities to enhance health and prevent depression in the elderly.