Abstract
Whether geographical isolation fits the conventional rural concept is discussed globally, including Japan. This study examined asset management problems of older adults in local communities, such as vacant houses and abandoned farmland, and clarified the support impact from people inside and outside the local government’s jurisdiction for farmland management. Data were extracted from one-person or couple households aged 70 + using social survey data from Nichinan Town, Tottori Prefecture, an isolated Japanese community. These data were analyzed using regression. The results showed that the residents received extensive support both within the jurisdiction of the local government, primarily from a few close relatives, friends, and acquaintances, and from outside the jurisdiction, including a few relatives living at a relatively close distance. The analysis revealed that supporters outside the jurisdiction of the local government might reduce residents’ perception of burden toward farmland management. This suggests that support from outside the local government may affect residents’ asset management. These findings from Japan can help determine a land management approach in diverse rural societies transcending geographical isolation.
https://ror.org/02rqvrp93 
