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Purpose This study aims to explore how social support has reshaped the care of older adults living alone in northeast Thailand during the COVID-19 pandemic. Design/methodology/approach This study used a qualitative method using a narrative gerontological perspective with a descriptive design. Purposive sampling was conducted from 20 in-depth narrative interviews between November 2021 and February 2022 in Maha Sarakham province, northeast Thailand. Data transcriptions were performed using a narrative analytical process. Findings The in-depth narrative interviews indicated that older adults living alone during the coronavirus pandemic valued a comfortable life, a sense of place, favourable living arrangements, self-reliance, life goals and meaningful life. The gerontological analysis showed that social support for older adults living alone included a social safety net, networking, supporting needs, physical care and mental health responses to the COVID-19 pandemic. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first qualitative narrative gerontological study to explore how social support reshaped the care of older adults living alone during the COVID-19 pandemic in northeast Thailand.

The influence of digital technology and sociocultural adaptation is currently quickly changing society. Understanding the disparities between generations was necessary for moving on to the next generation together. The purposes of this research were to 1) study patterns of improving the quality of life of the elderly in different family styles, and 2) develop a curriculum of self-awareness in bringing the parenting skills of the aging population to early childhood using contemplative education. Data were collected by using questionnaires from 285 elderly northeast people in one province of Thailand, semi-structured interviews conducted with 22 elderly people. The curriculum of self-awareness used Delphi technique to assess its the appropriateness. Six key attributes were reported in learning participation, acceptance of original experiences, self-guided learning, critical thinking, action, and reflection. Elderly needed self-development for applying knowledge and skills to correct actual parenting situations.