Social Isolation of Older Adults in a Marginalized Community in Japan
2024

Social Isolation of Older Adults in a Marginalized Community in Japan

Sample size: 297 publication

Author Information

Author(s): Watanabe Yuichi

Primary Institution: Musashino University, Nishitokyo, Tokyo, Japan

Hypothesis

What is the extent of social isolation among older adults in marginalized communities in Japan?

Conclusion

About 25% of older adults living alone in a marginalized community may experience social isolation, with 5.6% facing severe social isolation.

Supporting Evidence

  • Approximately 29% of Japan's population is aged 65 or older as of 2022.
  • 10-30% of Japanese older adults experience social isolation.
  • 2-10% of older adults face severe social isolation.
  • In the surveyed community, 72 out of 297 older adults were living alone.

Takeaway

In a community in Japan where many older people live alone, a lot of them don't see others very often, which can make them feel lonely.

Methodology

Surveys conducted in 2015, 2017, and 2019.

Limitations

Findings may not be generalizable to all marginalized communities in Japan.

Participant Demographics

Older adults in a marginalized community in Japan, with over 50% aged 65 or older.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1093/geroni/igae098.1889

Want to read the original?

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website

View Original Publication