Political Participation of the Elderly in Muensi Subdistrict Municipality, Samrong Thap District, Surin Province

Abstract

The objectives of this thesis are: 1) To study the level of political participation. 2) To compare the political participation, and 3) To propose guidelines for promoting and developing political participation among the elderly in Muean Si Subdistrict Municipality, Samrong Thap District, Surin Province.This research employs a mixed-methods design. The quantitative research involves a sample group of 270 elderly individuals aged 60 years and above, selected through multi-stage random sampling. A questionnaire was used for data collection, with a reliability coefficient of 0.978. The hypotheses were tested using t-test and one-way ANOVA (F-test). The statistical tools used for data analysis included frequency, percentage, mean () , and standard deviation (S.D.) For the qualitative research, in-depth interviews were conducted with 15 purposively selected participants using a structured interview form. The data were analyzed through content analysis within contextual interpretation Research Findings: 1) The overall opinions of the elderly regarding political participation in Muean Si Subdistrict Municipality Samrong Thap District, Surin Province were at a moderate level. When considering each aspect, it was found that: Political voting participation had the highest mean score (high level) Followed by political interest (moderate level) Participation in and attendance at political activities (moderate level) and Understanding and access to political information (moderate level).
2)  The comparison of political participation among the elderly, classified by gender, age, education level, occupation, and average monthly income, revealed that There was no significant difference in political participation between male and female elderly, thus rejecting the hypothesis. However, there were significant differences in political participation among the elderly when classified by age, education level, occupation, and average monthly income, thereby accepting the hypothesis. 3) The proposed guidelines for promoting and developing political participation among the elderly in Muean Si Subdistrict Municipality, Samrong Thap District, Surin Province are as follows:
1. Political Interest: Organize seminars or discussion activities that encourage the elderly to share ideas and opinions. 2. Political Voting: Provide education about the election process and the rights and duties of elderly citizens. 3. Understanding and Access to Political Information: Offer training programs on the use of online media and mobile phones to enhance access to political information.4.Participation in Political Activities: Encourage the elderly to take part in the Elderly Council or Community Committees to propose local development initiatives.