Kattika Thanakwang1, Kusol Soonthorndhada. 1. Institute of Nursing, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand. kattika99@yahoo.com
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To examine the relationships among family, friendship networks and supports, health-promoting behaviors, and healthy aging. METHOD: A sample of 469 Thai elderly persons was recruited using multistage random sampling. A structural equation model based on Berkman's conceptual model was performed. RESULTS: Family networks did not directly influence health-promoting behaviors but rather had an indirect effect through family support. Friendship networks had both a significant direct effect on the elderly health-promoting behaviors and an indirect effect via friendship support. Interestingly, friendships had both direct and indirect influences on family support to the elderly. Health-promoting behaviors had a powerful influence on healthy aging and play a significant role in mediating the relationship between family and friendship supports and healthy aging. DISCUSSION: Findings demonstrate the importance of family and friendship roles on health-promoting behaviors and healthy aging. Intervention programs should be designed to include a collaborative approach involving family members and friends.
OBJECTIVE: To examine the relationships among family, friendship networks and supports, health-promoting behaviors, and healthy aging. METHOD: A sample of 469 Thai elderly persons was recruited using multistage random sampling. A structural equation model based on Berkman's conceptual model was performed. RESULTS: Family networks did not directly influence health-promoting behaviors but rather had an indirect effect through family support. Friendship networks had both a significant direct effect on the elderly health-promoting behaviors and an indirect effect via friendship support. Interestingly, friendships had both direct and indirect influences on family support to the elderly. Health-promoting behaviors had a powerful influence on healthy aging and play a significant role in mediating the relationship between family and friendship supports and healthy aging. DISCUSSION: Findings demonstrate the importance of family and friendship roles on health-promoting behaviors and healthy aging. Intervention programs should be designed to include a collaborative approach involving family members and friends.
Authors: Maria Gabriella Melchiorre; Carlos Chiatti; Giovanni Lamura; Francisco Torres-Gonzales; Mindaugas Stankunas; Jutta Lindert; Elisabeth Ioannidi-Kapolou; Henrique Barros; Gloria Macassa; Joaquim F J Soares Journal: PLoS One Date: 2013-01-30 Impact factor: 3.240