6533b7d5fe1ef96bd1263e92

RESEARCH PRODUCT

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

Jieun YoonTomohiro OkuraTaishi TsujiTaishi TsujiYuko KaiYuki SomaTakashi JindoNaruki KitanoNaruki KitanoKenji Tsunoda

subject

Gerontologygoing outSocial networkbusiness.industryHealth PolicyPublic Health Environmental and Occupational HealthPhysical activityphysical activityTransportationta3142PollutionmobilityMode (music)Scale (social sciences)depressionGeriatric Depression ScalebicycleSafety Risk Reliability and QualitybusinessAssociation (psychology)PsychologySafety ResearchBody mass indexDepression (differential diagnoses)

description

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 index and clinical history, we found a positive association between frequency of bicycle and motor vehicle travel and physical activity, social networks and mental status (Trend P P P Conclusion Extending the travel area through use of transportation modes might provide health benefits. Assessing transportation mode usage could improve screening and assistance strategies for people who are physically or mentally frail or lonely.

yearjournalcountryeditionlanguage
2015-03-01Journal of Transport & Health
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jth.2014.10.003