IMPROVING THE QUALITY OF LIFE OF THE ELDERLY THROUGH PARTICIPATION IN THE ACTIVITIES OF POSYANDU LANSIA (INTEGRATED COMMUNITY HEALTH SERVICE OF ELDERLY)

Abstract

The development of the elderly population in Indonesia is interesting to observe because its population tends to increase every year. The purpose of this study was to analyze the factors associated with the participation of the elderly in the activities of Posyandu Lansia and its relationship with improving the quality of life of the elderly. This study uses a qualitative method. Data were collected through observation, interview and documentation study. Informants were midwife, cadres of Posyandu Lansia and the elderly. The results showed that the factors supporting participation of the elderly were the motivation to be healthy, the desire to meet and share experiences with friends, support from health providers as well as their family. Support from health providers such as a good health service, availability of health consultation and check-up facilities and also free medicines. Support from the family was the willingness to deliver the elderly so that they can participate in the Posyandu activities. On the other hand, the inhibiting factors for elderly participation were not knowing the benefits of Posyandu Lansia, the low level of education, and reluctance  to take the elderly to Posyandu Lansia. There was a positive relationship between participation and the quality of life of the elderly. The elderly who actively participate in Posyandu lansia were healthier, because they could monitor their health and feel happy because their lives are more meaningful. Conversely, the elderly who were not active could not monitor their health and feel unhappy and lonely. Based on this research it was concluded that the quality of life of the elderly could be improved through active participation in the activities of Posyandu Lansia.