Physical Activities, Healthy Life Style, and Successful Aging: International Comparison

Background: Physical activity is one of the recommended strategies for preventing chronic illness in Healthy People 2020. Healthy lifestyle is an essential factors for successful aging.

Objectives: This study investigates the effects of motivation on engaging in physical activity, and the impacts of socio-economic characteristics on physical activity for elderly. The study also evaluates how perceived mental/physical health is associated with physical physical among elderly between the US and Japan.

Significance: Limited studies have been conducted that focus on behavioral aspects of physical activity among elderly between the US and Japan. Expected and potential medical expenses often encourage healthy behaviors under different healthcare financing system in the US and Japan.

Methodology: The survey was conducted in the US (n=5313)and Japan (n=4934) by Osaka University using the Global COE Survey in 2009 and 2011. A set of regression analyses were conducted to investigate the influences of socio-economic and cultural aspects on health behaviors, which leads to physical activity by controlling perceived health. A factor analysis was performed to examine the relationship between perceived health and physical activity by controlling healthcare utilization.

Findings/Results: Perceived health is positively and significantly related to physical activity. There is no clear cut difference of health behavioral aspects between US and Japan. However, healthcare utilization and physical activity are negatively associated.

Conclusions/Recommendations: Physical activity is vital to promote successful aging in US and Japan. Physical activiy will reduce healthcare utilization especially in US. There is a clear cut evidence of healthcare cost burden in US.