Abstract
Objective : This study examined the current state of health promotion among young-old elderly residents in Yokohama City K Ward.
Subjects and Methods : We conducted a focus group interview survey. A total of 37 people (19 men and 18 women) were intentionally extracted from independent young-old elderly residents in Yokohama City K Ward. Groups of about ten males or females were established from these individuals, making four groups in total. Each group was interviewed for about 90 minutes regarding items related to health care. Responses were analyzed by the author who conducted the interviews and two people who had analytical experience of the focus group interview.
Results and Conclusion : As a result, health behavior and social participation in a regional exchange were closely related in the young-old elderly. It was shown that health care could become an obstruction although friendship and social activity were critical factors for women. For men, it was suggested that the retirement from work become an important opportunity for health promotion. After retirement from the familiar interpersonal relationships in the company, it was thought that men needed assistence to facilitate conversion to life in local society, and this being done smoothly influenced health behavior and social participation. In the development of future health promotion programs, it was considered necessary to provide support based on these findings.
