Monday, July 9, 2012

Hypothetical Orders of Kin Preferences for Elderly’s Support in Thailand

This study explored the kin preferences of Thai elderly for five types of assistance and support including meal preparation, personal care, transportation, financial support, and mental support. The qualitative method of focus group discussion was conducted in seven villages geographically across Nang Rong district which is located in the northeastern Thailand. For each village, male and female elderly whose age 60 and over were interviewed separately. As a result of the discussion, kin preferences were ranked in the first four orders by gender of elderly and types of support. It was found that male and female elderly’s preferences were slightly different regarding gender tasks and the traditionally matrilocal norm. However, the closest kin were firstly considered. Siblings and neighbors played significant roles when their close kin were not available. These hypothetical orders of kin preferences should be taken into account in order to provide the elderly’s long term care efficiently and sentimentally.

Please kindly give comments and suggestions for this abstract. Thank you very much. 

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