Hirosaki University to study quality of life in elderly via Iwaki Health Project

Hirosaki University has announced a research initiative utilizing longitudinal data from the Iwaki Health Promotion Project conducted between 2005 and 2025. The study aims to investigate the psychosocial and environmental determinants of health-related quality of life (HRQOL) among older adults.

As Japan faces rapid population aging, the research seeks to clarify how factors such as social isolation, social capital, environmental conditions, frailty, and the gut microbiome influence well-being. Specifically, the study will examine the mediating roles of depression, sleep quality, physical activity, and inflammatory biomarkers. The findings are intended to assist in the development of public health policies and interventions to improve the quality of life for the elderly.