AN APPLICATION OF BUDDHADHAMMA IN DAILY LIFE OF THE ELDERLY AT BAN THAMMAPAKORN IN MUANG DISTRICT, CHIANG MAI PROVINCЕ

Abstract

The objectives of this research are 1) to study the problems of the elderly
at Ban Thammapakorn in Muang District, Chiang Mai Province and 2) to study how to apply Buddhadhamma doctrine in daily life of elderly at at Ban Thammapakorn
Muang District, Chiang Mai Province.
in The result of this research. Was found;
Family and social problems: Researcher found a lack of good relationship
between the elderly at Ban Thammapakorn and people in the society. The elderly
want their children to take care of them when they get sick. They also want their
children to admire them. The elderly do not have much activities or interactions with
their children though they sometimes have meals and simple conversations. Health
problems: Researcher found out that the elderly do not get any kind of healthcare
services. Some do not eat on time. Some also have problems with their excretory
systems. Mental problems: Some seniors often display symptoms of depression e.g.
not being cheerful, denying food, and being worried or upset without reasons.
An application of Buddhadhamma in daily life of the Elderly Ban
Thammapakorn in Muang District, Chiang Mai Province should encourage the elderly
to understand the Principles of Permanence and Impermanence of life. The Four
Noble Truths could help them realize the problem and the cause of the problems.
The Four Devine States of Mind would direct them to have compassion and
sympathetic. These seniors should also understand the Five Precepts by refraining
from alcoholic drinks. The Five Ennobling Virtues could advise them to have
mindfulness practice. Researcher found that the cause that ruined most of their lives
is refraining from evils-drunkenness. These elders believe in good deed, bad deed,
karma, and life after death. They believe that they must stay in woeful state. Instead,
they make merit, they will stay in pleasurable state and are fortunate in their
next life.