Cross-sectional study examines physical function in older adults participating in Village Health Volunteer activities, suggesting community benefits.
Background: Thailand is experiencing rapid population aging, with adults aged 60 years and older exceeding 20% in 2023. Rural older adults often have limited access to institutional care, highlighting the potential importance of community-based programs such as the Village Health Volunteer (VHV) system. This study aimed to examine whether participation in VHV activities is associated with physical function among older adults. Subjects and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 497 community-dwelling older adults in Photharam District, Ratchaburi Province, Thailand (VHV participants: n = 177; nonparticipants: n = 320). Physical function was assessed using the timed up and go (TUG) test. Sociodemographic, health, and lifestyle information were collected via structured interviews. Multivariable linear regression examined the association between VHV participation and TUG performance, adjusting for age, sex, Body mass index, chronic diseases, education, and frequency of outings. Results: VHV participants demonstrated better mobility than nonparticipants (mean TUG: 9.9 ± 2.0 vs. 11.0 ± 3.1 s, P < 0.001). Volunteer participation remained associated with lower TUG scores after adjustment. Other factors linked to better function included fewer chronic conditions, higher education, and more frequent outings. Conclusion: Participation in the VHV program may be associated with better physical function among rural older adults in Thailand. These findings suggest that community-based volunteering could support mobility, social engagement, and active aging, although causal relationships cannot be confirmed. Longitudinal studies are needed to clarify the direction and strength of these associations.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Kuniya et al. (2026) studied this question.