Developing and evaluating a program of preventive care to delay the transition of elderly people to long-term care

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The purpose of this study was to develop and evaluate preventive methods to extend the period before elderly people reach the stage of requiring long-term care. Starting in 2010, we spent two years in collaboration with local governments to develop an appropriate tool for evaluating the effectiveness of preventive care. We subsequently began an exploration of preventive methods. Elderly people participated in a series of tests measuring levels of exercise, cognitive function, and life state. To fully clarify the effectiveness of these preventive care methods will require investigations over the next few years. However, our findings so far suggest that collaborative support by the local government is necessary to ensure continuous participation of elderly people in this type of program, and to maintain their comfort, safety, and positive wellbeing.