Characteristics of Elderly Homeopathic Clients at Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine Clinics, Sunpasitthiprasong Hospital, Ubon Ratchathani

Abstract

This research aimed to study characteristics and symptoms of elderly homeopathic clients at Thai traditional and alternative medicine clinics, Sunpasitthiprasong hospital, Ubon Ratchathani. Quantitative and qualitative methods were used in this study. Data were collected from 1 - 30 August 2020. Descriptive statistics and content analysis were used. The results showed that there were 101 patients. Most participants were female (61.39%). The ages are from 60 to 84 years old. Most patients were in the age range between 65-69 years old (32.67%). The top three symptoms were arthro-myofascial (28.63%), sleep-related disorders (19.82%), and neurology (14.54%). The top four homeopathic remedies were Carcinosinum, Argentum Nitricum, Medorrhinum and Arsenicum album. The reasons to choose homeopathy as an alternative medicine were due to doctors’ advice and patients’ curiosity. For the outcome aspect, most of the patients felt better physically and mentally. In terms of physical improvement, patients had less pain, better movement and more self-reliance. In terms of mentally improvement, patients felt more refreshed. Patients, who have recovered or felt better, would recommend homeopathy.