Preparedness for Later Life and Associated Factors among Thai Adults

ABSTRACT

This cross-sectional survey was aimed to explore the features of later life security and their related factors among Thais using the WHO Active Aging Framework. Data were collected from 1,129 adults aged 18–59 years in Nakhon Nayok, Thailand using a self-administered questionnaire consisting of three sections measuring demographic data, factors related to the active aging concept, and preparedness for later life. Logistic regression analyses were applied to determine the associated factors. The results showed that all the three later life preparedness variables were rated at medium levels; and setting aside funds for later life and managing inheritance were reported more frequently than having made funeral arrangements. Preparation for later life was strongly associated with community participation (odds ratio, 4.6; 95% CI 3.1–6.8) and financial security preparation (odds ratio,3.5; 95% CI 2.3–5.2). Further research is needed to promote later life preparation during the new normal period when community engagement and financial planning are more difficult and also to understand the features of later life preparation among aging population because lives of older persons are also more vulnerable and uncertain due to the pandemic.

KEYWORDS:

• Later life
• active aging
• community participation
• financial security preparation

Acknowledgments

The authors would like to thank the Ongkharak District Health Authority and the Ongkharak District community for kindly supporting this project. The project was funded by Srinakharinwirot University during the 2015-2016 fiscal year.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by the Srinakharinwirot University [2015-2016 fiscal year].