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Determinants of Quality of Life in Thai Caregivers of Dependent Older Adults: The Role of Health Promotion and Occupational Risks

Author

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  • Sasithorn Thanapop

    (Department of Health Sciences, Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University, Nonthaburi 11120, Thailand)

  • Bussarawadee Saengsuwan

    (Master of Public Health Program, School of Public Health, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80160, Thailand)

  • Irniza Rasdi

    (Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Malaysia)

  • Chamnong Thanapop

    (Master of Public Health Program, School of Public Health, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80160, Thailand
    Research Centre of Data Science for Health Science, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80160, Thailand)

Abstract

Caregiving for dependent older adults presents significant health and occupational challenges, particularly in rural Thailand. This study examines predictors of health-related quality of life (HR-QOL) among in-home caregivers, focusing on health promotion, non-communicable diseases (NCDs) prevention, and occupational health practices. An analytic cross-sectional study was conducted among 701 caregivers across 23 districts in Nakhon Si Thammarat, southern Thailand. Data were collected through structured questionnaires assessing socio-demographics, health behaviors, working conditions, and HR-QOL using the Thai SF-36V2. Stepwise regression analysis identified key predictors of HR-QOL. Our findings indicate that most caregivers were female (81.5%), middle-aged (mean age: 47.7 years), and had moderate education levels. Over half experienced moderate exposure to occupational hazards, including physical, biological, ergonomic, and psychosocial risks, contributing to job strain, inadequate rest, and strained relationships. HR-QOL scores suggested that a significant proportion of caregivers had moderate to poor quality of life, particularly in physical health domains. Stepwise regression analysis showed that better self-reported health promotion behaviors and occupational hazard prevention practices were positively associated with HR-QOL, whereas the presence of NCDs had a negative impact. These findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to enhance caregivers’ well-being and inform public health strategies for strengthening community-based care systems.

Suggested Citation

  • Sasithorn Thanapop & Bussarawadee Saengsuwan & Irniza Rasdi & Chamnong Thanapop, 2025. "Determinants of Quality of Life in Thai Caregivers of Dependent Older Adults: The Role of Health Promotion and Occupational Risks," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 22(4), pages 1-11, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:22:y:2025:i:4:p:578-:d:1629502
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Suwida Rakpaitoon & Sasithorn Thanapop & Chamnong Thanapop, 2022. "Correctional Officers’ Health Literacy and Practices for Pulmonary Tuberculosis Prevention in Prison," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 19(18), pages 1-11, September.
    2. Ariaans, Mareike & Linden, Philipp & Wendt, Claus, 2021. "Worlds of long-term care: A typology of OECD countries," Health Policy, Elsevier, vol. 125(5), pages 609-617.
    Full references (including those not matched with items on IDEAS)

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