Exploring Factors Contributing to the Progression of Lifestyle-Related Diseases among Culturally Diverse Older Adults in Japan

2024 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 19K19776
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Early-Career Scientists
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Review Section: Basic Section 58080:Gerontological nursing and community health nursing-related
• Research Institution: Tokyo Metropolitan University (2024); Tokyo Medical University (2019-2023)
• Principal Investigator: Chu Hyang Oh 東京都立大学, 人間健康科学研究科, 准教授 (80511401)
• Project Period (FY): 2019-04-01 – 2025-03-31
• Keywords: 中高年者 / 生活習慣病の重症化予防 / 多文化共生

Outline of Final Research Achievements

This study aimed to explore factors associated with the progression of lifestyle-related diseases among middle-aged and older adults with diverse cultural backgrounds. A scoping review and qualitative interviews were conducted. Among settled Korean residents in Japan, patriarchal cultural norms led women to deprioritize their own health, while language barriers, limited health literacy, and poor understanding of the healthcare system contributed to delayed care and treatment interruptions, these factors that increased the risk of disease progression. Additionally, difficulties in social integration and stress within ethnic communities hindered sustained health management. These findings highlight the importance of culturally sensitive public health nursing approaches focused on preventing the progression of lifestyle-related diseases.

Free Research Field

公衆衛生看護学

Academic Significance and Societal Importance of the Research Achievements

看護職による多様な文化的背景を踏まえた支援に有用な知見となり、中高年者の健康格差の縮小や生活習慣病の重症化予防に向けて、より包括的な支援策を検討するための一助となると考える。