The Relationship Between Neighborhood Environment, Health-Related Behaviors, and Self-Rated Health in Community-Dwelling Older Adults in Japan

This cross-sectional study investigated the influence of neighborhood environments and health-related behaviors on self-rated health among older adults in Kitaibaraki City, Japan. A questionnaire was mailed to 5,000 individuals aged 65-85 years to collect data on demographics, social connections (Lubben Social Network Scale 6), social participation, and frequency of going out. Neighborhood walkability was assessed using Walk Score®. Path analysis with structural equation modeling was used to analyze 1,779 responses to evaluate direct and indirect effects on self-rated health. We found significant indirect effects of social connections on self-rated health via social participation (β = 0.058, <i>p < .</i>01) and frequency of going out (β = 0.051, <i>p < .</i>01). Direct effects of social participation (β = 0.194, <i>p < .</i>01) and frequency of going out (β = 0.194, <i>p < .</i>01) were also significant. Promoting social participation, encouraging outings, and strengthening social connections through community resources are crucial for increasing self-rated health.