Transportation mode usage and physical, mental and social functions in older Japanese adults

Abstract Objective The purpose of this study was to cross-sectionally examine associations between frequencies of bicycle and motor vehicle travel, physical and mental statuses and social networks. Methods This study was conducted from 2009 to 2012 with 629 community-dwelling older adults (73.3±5.2 years old, female 53.7%) in Kasama City, Rural Japan. Travel status, physical activity scale for the elderly, Lubben social network scale and geriatric depression scale were collected via a self-administrated questionnaire. We also calculated a standardized physical function score through physical performance tests. Results After adjusting for age, gender, education, living arrangement, body mass…