A REVIEW OF EMPOWERMENT MODEL OF HEALTH PROMOTION IN PROMOTING HEALTHFUL LIVING IN COVID-19 ERA

This paper reviewed an empowerment model of health promotion and its effect on health
and well-being and relates it to the COVID-19 era. The review found fewer instances
where empowerment approaches had made a difference to the actual health and well-
being of communities, although there was good evidence showing that community
engagement was beneficial for social cohesion, social capital and strengthening
relationships and trust among participants. The role of social and environmental
determinants of health promotion especially money is an essential ingredient in coping
during the COVID-19 era. Based on the available literature, it was found out that there
are five key areas where empowerment strategies or interventions had improved individual
health related outcomes in terms of healthful living. These areas were identified as:
improved self-efficacy and self-esteem; greater sense of control; increased knowledge and
awareness; behaviour change; a greater sense of community broadened social networks
and social support; which are very necessary in the COVID-19 era. The authors suggested
that further research is needed to establish the evidence for links between empowerment
and improvements in the health status of communities.