The Nutritional Condition and Living Environment of Elderly People Residing in the Community

Abstract

  The aging population is advancing every year in Japan. In order to effectively support independent living of the elderly residing in the community, it is vital to examine the differences in motivation and environment among the residents, in addition to their nutritional condition and physical functions. In a study of two groups of independent community residents aged 80 years or older, 85 individuals from N City of Hyogo Prefecture and 34 individuals from KT City of Kyoto Prefecture, the authors investigated their nutritional condition, physical and oral functions, and other conditions using a questionnaire, and obtained basic data that would be useful in offering them effective support. The bone density of women was significantly higher in KT City compared with N City, and the grip strength of men was higher in KT City compared with N City. The results suggested that there are a significant number people who are at risk of becoming malnourished in N City. The results also revealed the influence of differences in not only the living environment, but also in household composition, suggesting the increasing importance of understanding the environment surrounding the elderly as well as their needs, in order to provide them with effective support services and networks.