A MODEL FOR PROMOTING ELDERLY WELL-BEING IN THAI SOCIETY BASED ON THE UPOSATHA PRECEPTS

Abstract

This research article aimed to: 1) examine Uposatha observance in Theravāda Buddhist scriptures; 2) investigate the problems and approaches to promoting well-being among older adults in Thai society; and 3) propose a model for promoting older adults’ well-being based on Uposatha observance. This qualitative study employed documentary research together with fieldwork. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with 15 Buddhist practitioners aged 60 years and above who regularly observed the Uposatha precepts in Bang Kruai District, Nonthaburi Province. The data were analyzed using content analysis and presented descriptively.

The findings revealed that:

1) Uposatha observance is a practice through which lay Buddhists temporarily train themselves in accordance with the way of life of arahants by observing the Eight Precepts. This practice promotes restraint of body, speech, and mind, reduces unwholesome stimuli and behaviors, and serves as a foundation for developing morality, concentration, and wisdom within the framework of the Threefold Training. Among the forms of Uposatha observance, Ariya Uposatha represents the most complete form of practice. 2) Older adults face interconnected challenges in physical, psychological, social, and wisdom-related dimensions, including declining health, chronic illness, stress, loneliness, reduced social roles, and the search for meaning in later life. Uposatha observance can contribute to holistic well-being through behavioral restraint, mindfulness and mental cultivation, supportive relationships with spiritual friends, and wisdom development. 3) The synthesis of documentary and field data led to the development of the UPOSATHA Model, consisting of eight dimensions: U–Uposatha Foundation, P–Physical Balance, O–Optimal Mental Well-being, S–Social Harmony, A–Awakened Wisdom, T–Threefold Training, H–Health-Responsive Practice, and A–Alliance and Assessment. The model integrates Uposatha observance, the Threefold Training, the Fourfold Development, and support mechanisms involving families, temples, communities, and relevant agencies in order to promote balanced physical, mental, social, and wisdom-based well-being among older adults.