Development of Self-Active Aging Index (S-AAI) Among Rural Elderly in Lower Northern Thailand Classified by Age and Gender

Abstract This study aimed to develop a Self-Active Aging Index (S-AAI) for the rural community of Thailand using the World Health Organization (WHO) framework, and score it according to age and gender. Overall, 1,098 elderly people were randomly selected. The self-reported questionnaires were categorized into three segments: health, participation, and security. An exploratory factor analysis was used to determine appropriate components. The S-AAI comprised 28 indicators and 9 factors: 1) mental/subjective health; 2) physical health; 3) health behavior and chronic disease; 4) vision and hearing; 5) oral health; 6) social participation; 7) stability in life; 8) financial stability; and 9) secure living. The overall S-AAI was 0.65, with the index inversely proportional to age, but with no gender differences. The S-AAI is potentially Thailand's first multi-dimensional interactive aging assessment tool with a unique cultural context for rural areas. Although this tool is valid, it requires reliability testing.