Abstract
In this paper I discuss the reorganization of rural communities by a formation of a local autonomous organization and social relations of the elderly to other residents in the communities. An investigation was carried out in former Takamiya town in Hiroshima Prefecture. Specifically, efforts have been made to clarify the role of the local autonomous organization to coordinate rural communities and the influences on social relations of the elderly.
In the targeted communities, the increase of the ratio of elder people and the reduction in the number of households have been conspicuous. The local autonomous organization is responsible for supporting their farming and not sufficiently responsible for supporting their livelihoods. The livelihoods are also supported by relationships between the elderly and other residents within communities.
