B01 Elderly Social Participation (Sociology)

The aim of this research is to examine the social participation of the elderly, which is an important subject in “Lifelong Sciences,” through social surveys. Since the latter half of the 20th century, “the social participation of women” has become an important issue in economically developed countries. However, in Japan, where the birth rate is declining and the population is aging, the advancement of meaningful social participation of not only women but also other social groups is desirable. However, systematic research on social conditions for social participation of the elderly is still insufficient.

Social conditions for participation are necessary even if there are no obstacles in terms of people’s physical and cognitive abilities. For instance, even if women’s physical and cognitive abilities are the same as those of men, depending on the burden to care for their family and their family support system, women cannot be fully active. Similarly, the elderly group should have the conditions that allow them to fully manifest their potential and enjoy their lives. By examining these conditions, we intend to contribute to the subject area of “reconceptualization of life.” (B01 Principal investigator: Junya Tsutsui)