Development of oral health care system for homebound and bedridden elderly in Chiang rai province

Abstract

This action research aimed to develop an oral health care system for home-bound and bedridden older adults in Chiang Rai Province, Thailand.

The study was conducted from July 2024 to June 2025 and involved 334 participants, including 234 family caregivers and 100 health care  providers. The service providers comprised village health volunteers, multidisciplinary health personnel, and members of the committee responsible for developing the province's oral health care system.

The research was carried out in four phases: planning, action, observation, and reflection. Data were collected through questionnaires, interviews, and participatory workshops, and were analyzed using descriptive statistics.

The study resulted in the development of a community-based oral health care system that emphasized continuous, home-based care, supported by regular follow-ups and consultations from local health services. Key components of the system included structured referral pathways, caregiver training, and the integration of oral health into the broader health care system, grounded in holistic care principles. The initiative fostered collaboration among stakeholders and was recognized as a priority within provincial health policy. However, its long-term success will require sustained policy commitment and financial support to address challenges in implementation.