Model for Promoting the Potential of the Elderly with the Wisdom of Thai Angklung DOI:

Abstract

Thailand is rapidly transitioning into a super-aged society, necessitating innovative approaches to enhance the quality of life and self-reliance of elderly populations. Traditional Thai music, particularly the Angklung, has historically been linked to community engagement and therapeutic benefits, offering a culturally rooted tool for elderly development. This research aimed to explore the Thai musical wisdom of the Angklung and to develop a model for promoting the potential of the elderly through the application of this musical heritage. This study employed a qualitative research design. Data were collected through interviews with 60 elderly participants and a community leader from Ban Don Ngern, participatory observation, and documentation. The research integrated training tools based on the Kodály method to build musical skills, memory, and coordination. The process involved relationship building, skill assessment, musical training, and public performances. The results found that out of 70 elderly individuals in the community, 60 successfully participated in and completed the Angklung training. The structured model involved nine stages of musical development, including 1) ability level selection, 2) physical skills testing based on Kodaly's music theory, 3) visual and auditory skills training, 4) listening to music training, 5) learn music notes, 6) practice shaking the Angklung, 7) try shaking the Angklung according to the notes, 8) bring the results from the training to show, and 9) set up a band for the elderly group culminating in the formation of an elderly music group. Moreover, the participants demonstrated enhanced physical coordination, mental alertness, and emotional satisfaction, and were able to perform in public events, contributing to their sense of pride and offering income-generating opportunities. Therefore, it can be concluded that Thai musical wisdom, especially the use of Angklung, can effectively develop the potential of the elderly. These include the potential to boost memory and brain function, improve mood, reduce stress and depression, promote communication and social relationships, and stimulate movement and sensory perception.