2021 Volume 32 Pages 85-93
Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a public health nurse-initiated training program for health promotion volunteers (HPVs) developed by the researchers to address health issues and develop community health. Method: A total of 12 training sessions over two years were conducted to six HPVs selected from four resident organizations in B town. We performed anonymous self-administered questionnaires longitudinally, before the program, at the end of year 1, and at the end of year 2, to evaluate the program effectiveness quantitatively. Measures included health-related Quality of Life (QoL), attitude toward community, lifestyle habits, Social Capital (SC), and basic attributes. Questionnaire results were analyzed using a mixed model focusing on time series changes. Interviews were also conducted at the end of year 1 and year 2 and analyzed using qualitative descriptive methodology. Results: HPVs reported improvements in community engagement and health promotion activities. No significant changes were observed in the SF-8, attitudes toward the community Scale, or SC Index. At the end of year 1, they reported some confusion about their roles and activities and started to take more care of their own health and that of their families and community. At the end of year 2 they reported that they had developed a sense of responsibility for their activities and had a sense of accomplishment, expanded relationships and an increasing attachment to the community. Conclusion: The qualitative findings suggest the training program was effective for HPVs, who reported lifestyle improvements and showed more positive changes with years. Research with a larger sample across a range of communities is indicated.
