Development of a Stroke Prevention Model for At-Risk Populations in Nong Son Subdistrict, Chiang Yuen District, Maha Sarakham Province

Abstract

This action research aimed to develop a stroke prevention model for at-risk populations in Nong Son Subdistrict, Chiang Yuen District, Maha Sarakham Province, Thailand. The model development group consisted of 30 participants: 1) six older adults, 2) six patients with chronic diseases, 3) six individuals at risk of stroke, 4) three village health volunteers, 5) three community leader representatives, 6) two representatives from the local administrative organization, 7) two public health technical officers, and 8) two registered nurses. The data collection group consisted of 30 individuals at risk of stroke residing in Nong Son Subdistrict, Chiang Yuen District, Maha Sarakham Province. The study applied the action research framework of Kemmis and McTaggart, comprising four stages: Planning (P), Action (A), Observation (O), and Reflection (R), implemented over two cycles. Data were collected over a 16-week period using a questionnaire developed by the researcher, from October 2026 to April 2026. Qualitative data were compiled, categorized, and analyzed using content analysis. Differences in mean scores before and after implementation of the developed model were analyzed using a paired t-test. The findings revealed that the developed stroke prevention model for at-risk populations in Nong Son Subdistrict, Chiang Yuen District, Maha Sarakham Province, designated the NONGSON STROKE Model, consisted of six components: 1) proactive risk identification and assessment, 2) enhancement of health literacy and recognition of stroke warning signs, 3) behavioral modification and self-management, 4) empowerment of families, village health volunteers, and communities, 5) continuous follow-up and rapid referral, and 6) development of sustainable networks and support systems. Following implementation of the model, participants demonstrated significantly higher mean scores for stroke knowledge, health beliefs regarding stroke, social support for stroke prevention, and stroke preventive behaviors compared with their pre-intervention scores (p < 0.05).