DEVELOPING A SELF-CARE MODEL FOR ELDERLY PATIENTS WITH DIABETES MELLITUS IN LOEI PROVINCE

Abstract

This research and development study aimed to develop and evaluate a self-care health promotion model for elderly patients with diabetes in Loei Province, Thailand. The study was conducted in four phases: (1) review of baseline data and relevant theories,
(2) development of the self-care model, (3) field implementation and testing, and (4) evaluation and refinement of the model. The sample comprised 239 participants, including diabetes care personnel at subdistrict and district levels and elderly diabetic patients from clinics under the Loei Provincial Public Health Office. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation) and inferential statistics—specifically, the paired-sample t-test—at a significance level of p < 0.05.

              The developed model is structured around three core components, known as the “3S” framework: (S1) building knowledge on self-care, (S2) enhancing self-efficacy in self-care, and (S3) promoting healthy self-care behaviors. Results showed statistically significant improvements across all three domains (p < 0.01): mean knowledge scores increased from 14.02 to 17.28, self-efficacy scores rose from 1.42 to 2.48, and self-care behavior scores improved from 1.41 to 2.45. These findings confirm that when elderly patients receive accessible health knowledge and are supported through participatory activities and positive interpersonal relationships, they demonstrate sustained improvements in health behaviors.

            Conclusion The developed model shows potential for application in older adults with diabetes and at-risk populations. However, this study did not measure HbA1c levels; therefore, it is not yet possible to directly confirm its effect on blood glucose control