BUDDHADHAMMA APPLICATION FOR ENHANCING THE QUALITY OF LIFE OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES IN SAMUT PRAKAN PROVINCE

Abstract

This research article aimed:  1. To study the general conditions of the quality of life of disabled persons in Samut Prakan Province; 2. To study the factors contributing to the enhancement of the quality of life of disabled persons in Samut Prakan Province; and 3. To propose guidelines for applying Buddhist principles to enhance the quality of life of disabled persons in Samut Prakan Province, conducted by the  qualitative research. Data were collected through in-depth interviewing 20 key informants who were involved in the development of the quality of life of disabled persons. The research instrument was structured in-depth interview script, and the data were analyzed using descriptive content analysis.

The findings revealed that: 1. The quality of life of disabled persons in Samut Prakan Province consisted of four interconnected aspects: physical, psychological, social, and environmental. Access to healthcare services, rights and welfare, psychological stability, social networks, and public facilities were key factors supporting self-reliance and social participation although limitations in service coverage and continuity remain. 2. The enhancement of quality of life was explained by Bhavana 4, namely, Gaya-bhavana, Sila-bhavana, Citta-bhavana, and Panna-bhavana, which functioned synergistically to strengthen internal capacities, including health, behavior, emotional stability, and adaptive learning. 3. The application of Buddhist principles was driven through four main domains: employment, healthcare access, education, and facilities, which are integrated with Bhavana 4 to connect external factors with internal capacity development in accordance with the local context. The findings also reflected the integration between external factors and internal capacities, with Bhavana 4 functioning as a connecting mechanism, constituting a novel finding that explained the holistic and sustainable development of the quality of life of disabled persons.