Effectiveness of a Health Education Program Using Group Process on Elderly at Risk of Stroke

DOI: 10.5176/2315-4330_WNC13.51

Authors: Janthira Jaksarn, Wiyakarn Sanghuachang and Siritorn Yingrengreung

Abstract:
This quasi-experimental, one group pretest - posttest test study was conducted on 21 elderly at risk for stroke at Ton Tan District located in Saraburi province, Thailand. A health education program using group process was conducted over a four-week period. The program content focused on stroke knowledge and prevention practices related to eating, exercise, stress management and stroke warning signs. Two telephone contacts to provide support, advice, and follow-up on problems encountered were conducted once a week for 2 consecutive weeks. The evaluation of program activities was conducted during the fourth week. Findings indicated that the mean post-test scores of stroke knowledge related to risk factors, warning signs and health practices to reduce the risk of having a stroke were, after finishing the education program, significantly higher than the mean pre-test scores (p < .05). This study provides support for the contention that health education programs using group process improve knowledge and health behavior of elderly people at risk of stroke. Keywords: component, education program, stroke, elderly, group process