Age-specific changes in mental, physical, lifestyle, and motor function in older adult long-term participants at “kayoinoba” (community gathering places) in a Japanese city: A cohort study

Abstract Introduction This study assessed the mental, physical, and lifestyle functioning of older adult long-term participants (5 years) in a Japanese city’s kayoinoba using the Kihon checklist, 30-second chair stand test (CS-30), and a single leg stance test (SLS test). Methods This study was conducted as an observational study. Participants were categorized into young-old (<75 years) and old-old (≥75 years) groups based on their initial age. Results Although total Kihon checklist scores increased significantly at follow-up, no significant difference was found after adjusting for age, suggesting a strong aging effect. Depressed mood (DM) had a relatively pronounced impact on total Kihon checklist scores in the old-old group. The young-old group exhibited a smaller increase in total Kihon checklist scores compared to the old-old group. Motor function remained above that of the general older adults, regardless of age. Conclusion The findings indicate that long-term participation in kayoinoba, particularly among young-old individuals, improves motor function and social participation frequency, potentially reducing the risk of requiring long-term care.