An Application of The Tilakkhna Principle for Self-Reliance of The Elderly in The New Normal Way in Phrae Province

การประยุกต์หลักไตรลักษณ์เพื่อการครองตนของผู้สูงอายุแบบวิถีปกติใหม่ ในจังหวัดแพร่

Abstract

The objectives of this study aimed: 1) to examine the principle of Tilakkhaṇa (the Three Characteristics of Existence) in Theravāda Buddhism; 2) to explore the ways of life of the elderly in the new normal context in Phrae Province; and 3) to apply the principle of Tilakkhaṇa to the self-conduct of the elderly in the new normal in Phrae Province. This study employed a qualitative research methodology, using in-depth interviews with 15 key informants.

          The findings were as follows:

1. Tilakkhaṇa, or the Three Universal Characteristics, refers to the general attributes of all phenomena: (1) aniccatā (impermanence), meaning instability and non-sustainability; (2) dukkhatā (suffering), referring to the state of being oppressed by arising and dissolution, as well as by internal pressure and distress; and (3) anattatā (non-self), meaning the absence of an inherent, permanent self.
2. The elderly demonstrated ten patterns of adaptation in their way of life under the new normal: (1) dietary adjustment, (2) housing adjustment, (3) adjustment in interpersonal communication, (4) adjustment in travel, (5) adjustment in consumer product selection, (6) adaptation in maintaining personal hygiene, (7) psychological adjustment, (8) emotional adjustment, (9) adjustment in social participation, and (10) adjustment in the use of media and technology.
3. The application of Tilakkhaṇa for elderly self-conduct in the new normal was found in three aspects: (1) aniccatā was applied in daily life and interactions with others; (2) dukkhatā was applied in managing suffering and coping with difficulties in life; and (3) anattatā was applied in accepting life’s inevitable changes.