Roles in Kayoino-ba and their relationship with Ikigai, functional ability, and frailty in older adults

[Purpose] Independent group activities (Kayoino-ba) are expected to improve Ikigai (a sense of purpose) among older adults in the community. The differences in Ikigai, physical and mental function, and frailty among older adults, participating in Kayoino-ba, were examined by comparing participants with and without group roles. [Participants and Methods] Older adults who engaged in Kayoino-ba were enrolled. Physical function was assessed using grip strength, the five-times sit-to-stand test, the 5-meter walking time, and the Timed Up and Go test. Participants were grouped by role status, and intergroup comparisons were performed. Ikigai was the dependent variable and role status was the independent variable, with age group, sex, participation, and frailty as covariates. Clustering was adjusted using generalized estimating equations. [Results] In total, 265 participants (20 groups) participated in this study. Participants with a group role had significantly lower frailty and superior performance in grip strength, the Timed Up and Go test, Ikigai-9, Kihon Checklist, and Life Space Assessment than participants who did not have a group role. Multivariable generalized estimating equation analysis showed that participants who had a group role had a significantly greater likelihood of reporting Ikigai (odds ratio=7.14, 95% confidence interval: 1.12-45.52). [Conclusion] Having a group role may be an important factor associated with Ikigai among older adults, and it could positively contribute to healthy aging.