The purpose of this study was to investigate how elderly people utilize their “third place”, places where they can visit and spend time freely without an appointment, and how the importance of these places affects elderly people. To achieve the purpose, questionnaire surveys were conducted targeting healthy elderly people aged 65-79 living in four municipalities. Followings are the major conclusion; 1. A total of 69.6% of respondents could identify their “third places”. As they age, their attendance becomes more frequent. 2. Those who have a “third place” are significantly more outgoing and have more conversation with people other than their families, as well. Without “third places”, the risk of shut-in (“going out” less than once a week) and social isolation (having conversation less than once a month) increases; odds ratio (OR) were 1.76 and 2.09 with adjustment for age and gender. 3. A library is a favorite place irrespective of gender, but “third places” which do not allow for social interaction do not contribute to preventing social isolation although they provide a beneficial atmosphere for the shut-in elderly.
