Transferring Occupational Therapy Knowledge to Village Health Volunteers to Enhance Activities of Daily Living Among Older Adults in Community‐Based Elder Care: A Qualitative Study

INTRODUCTION: Thailand's rapidly aging population highlights the urgent need for sustainable strategies to support older adults' independence in activities of daily living (ADLs). Occupational therapists (OTs) play a vital role; however, their limited availability restricts community-based service delivery. Village Health Volunteers (VHVs), embedded within local communities, provide ongoing support but lack structured guidance in ADL-focused care. OBJECTIVE: This study is aimed at developing occupational therapy-informed practice guidelines that translate professional expertise into culturally relevant recommendations for community-based eldercare. METHODS: A qualitative design using semistructured interviews was employed with 10 OTs in Chiang Mai, Northern Thailand. Participants were recruited through stratified and purposive sampling across urban, semiurban, and suburban settings. The inclusion criteria required a minimum of 5 years of clinical experience with older adults and direct involvement in ADL training. Data were collected between April and June 2024, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed thematically. Guiding questions were interpreted using the Occupational Therapy Practice Framework: Domain and Process, 4th Edition (OTPF-4), while additional inquiry explored broader community and cultural themes. Credibility was ensured through rapport building, audio recording, and member checking. RESULTS: OTs recommended adaptive techniques, environmental modifications, caregiver education, and assistive device integration. Culturally adapted solutions, such as Thai garments, bamboo ramps, and gradual modification of bathing practices, were emphasized to enhance acceptance and sustainability. CONCLUSION: This study provides structured, occupational therapy-informed guidelines to support ADLs among community-dwelling Thai older adults. Empowering VHVs through these recommendations may strengthen community-based eldercare, reduce caregiver burden, and promote active, dignified aging in place.