Frailty Prevention and Healthy Aging: Demand Analysis in a Japanese City

Frailty is a growing public health concern in Japan, as the elderly population is projected to reach 39.53 million by 2043. In response to the increasing demand for long-term care and the increasing risk of dementia, frailty prevention has become a priority in Japan’s healthy aging policies. In this study, we conducted a cross-sectional survey in City A, Japan where 137 respondents were included in the analysis. Residents across different age groups including teenagers to those aged 70 years old and above were recruited in this study to assess their needs for social care and support, especially frailty prevention, community livability, and individual well-being. The results indicated that residents valued City A's security, convenience, and strong community ties. However, they also expressed concerns about limited leisure options, economic uncertainty, and low participation in community initiatives which contribute to improving the overall quality of life but increase frailty risks at the same time. Additionally, the respondents experienced work-related pressures, health concerns, and financial insecurity, which might increase their frailty risks, too. These findings underscore the need for integrated urban and community planning strategies to enhance recreational facilities, expand healthcare infrastructure, and provide adaptable social support systems to reduce frailty risks.