Abstract

This study investigates the effectiveness of community day care centers in improving the quality of life for older adults. The research was conducted in two subdistrict municipalities in Thailand using both qualitative and quantitative data collection methods. The sample included older adults and stakeholders involved in day care services provided by two local administrative organizations. Qualitative data from interviews indicated positive impacts on quality of life in four areas: (1) well-being, with improvements in both physical and mental health in some participants; (2) happiness, with all participants reporting increased emotional satisfaction; (3) social engagement, with more participation in social activities; and (4) living environment, with an improved understanding of living in clean, safe spaces appropriate for their age. Quantitative data, analyzed using the structural equation model (SEM), revealed a good model fit: χ² (91, N = 233) = 112.383, p = 0.064, χ²/df = 1.235, CFI = 0.992, TLI = 0.988, RMSEA = 0.032, SRMR = 0.035. Based on these findings, community day care services can significantly enhance the quality of life for older adults when local administrative organizations design and manage operations in alignment with the model principles of SEM.