The influencing factors of protective behaviors among elderly people in Phayao Province, Thailand

Particulate matter with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometers (PM2.5) is an environmental contaminant that significantly impacts the health of the elderly. Therefore, socio-demographic variables, environmental health literacy (EHL), and protective behaviors (PB) are essential factors to examine among the elderly people. This cross-sectional study aimed to assess the levels of EHL and PB, as well as the factors influencing PB related to PM2.5, among elderly individuals. The sample included 626 elderly participants from Phayao Province, a region in northern Thailand affected by PM2.5. Participants were selected using multistage sampling, and data were collected via a questionnaire between February 2024 and April 2024. Descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis (MRA) were used for data analysis. The results indicated that the majority of participants were female (54.8%), married (67.7%), had an elementary education (67.7%), had worked in agriculture (32.7%), and had underlying diseases (49.4%). The mean age was 67.2 years, while the mean duration of residence was 51.7 years. The EHL level was low (mean=1.53 out of 5.0 points), whereas PB was moderate (mean=2.27 out of 3.0 points). MRA identified four independent variables that predicted PB: EHL (B = 0.102), occupation (B = -0.886), duration of residence (B = -0.018), and underlying disease (B = -0.539). This study highlights the need for health organizations to prioritize enhancing EHL to promote preventive behaviors, establish EHL programs, and assess EHL and PB among elderly people. Moreover, relevant organizations should develop policies to improve EHL and PB among the elderly in the study area.