Developing a Participation-Building Model for Promoting Active Ageing among Older Adults

Abstract

This study aimed to develop and study the effects of a participation-building model for promoting active ageing amongolder adults. The methodology in this study was a mixed method, including 1) deriving lessons from three best practice areaswith high indices of older adult participation, 2) use of data from Stage 1 as baseline information presented in focus groupdiscussions for developing the model, and 3) study of the effects of the Participation-Building Model for Promoting ActiveAgeing among Older Adults through quasi-experimental research. The results show a model consisting of area executives withthe following policies and plans for supporting older adults who have the leisure to participate in social activities: 1) modifyingfacilities, environments, and communications; 2) supplying necessary equipment; and 3) providing lecturers to offer knowledgeabout activities, self-care, and communication technology. The people responsible for providing information and coordinatingactivities were arranged. At six months after the quasi-experiment, the mean scores of the experimental group were higher thanthe control group (t=7.166, p=.000 and t=7.570, p=.000, respectively). In addition, the experimental group’s mean scoresfor posttest participation and active ageing were found to be higher than the pretest scores (t=-4.030, p=.000 and t=-3.422,p=.002, respectively).According to the findings, the older adults who participated in social activities were found to have higher levels of engage-ment in active ageing with greater ability for self-care and security while participating in activities continually with a generallyfriendly attitude toward their surroundings. Therefore, it can be concluded that the program provides guidelines for promotingparticipation among older adults so they can be ready to perform activities in daily life, have good health, and be independent.