The Buddhist Integrated Development for New Normal Life of The Elderly’s Holistic Well-being in Thai Society การพัฒนาสุขภาวะองค์รวมของผู้สูงอายุวิถีใหม่ในสังคมไทย เชิงพุทธบูรณาการ

Abstract

This research article has three main objectives: (1) To examine concepts and theories of holistic wellbeing for the elderly in Thai society. (2) To explore Buddhist principles applicable to enhancing holistic wellbeing for the elderly in Thailand’s new normal context. (3)To propose a Buddhist-integrated framework for holistic wellbeing development in the elderly, aligned with the new societal paradigm. Methodology: This qualitative study employed in-depth interviews with 20 key informants, including Buddhist scholars, holistic wellbeing experts, and elderly individuals. Data analysis followed descriptive and explanatory synthesis approaches.

Findings:The study revealed that holistic wellbeing development for the elderly requires an integrated approach encompassing physical, mental, social, and intellectual dimensions, with Buddhist principles serving as the core driver. These principles foster mental stability and wisdom, enabling mindful self-reliance and adaptive resilience in the new normal era.

Key Knowledge: "The 9 Knowledges for Wellbeing" The research identified a framework for elderly wellbeing development, termed "The 9 Knowledges for Wellbeing": 1)Know the Body: Understanding age-related physical changes. 2)Know the Mind: Practicing meditation and emotional regulation. 3)Know Eating: Choosing nutritious and appropriate foods. 4)Know Living: Safely adapting to one’s environment. 5)Know Time: Managing time meaningfully. 6) Know Love: Cultivating positive social interactions. 7) Know Virtue (Sīla): Upholding Buddhist ethical conduct. 8)Know Concentration (Samādhi): Developing meditative stability. 9) Know Wisdom (Paññā): Applying reasoned reflection in daily life. These elements form the "Buddhist-Integrated Framework for Elderly Development in the New Normal Era," applicable at individual, familial, and societal levels.

Conclusion:The study demonstrates that Thai elderly can achieve balanced wellbeing and a high quality of life in the new normal society when supported in developing their potential through contextually appropriate Buddhist principles. This approach fosters happiness, self-sufficiency, and harmonious social integration.