Longevity and elderly care: lessons from Japan

Abstract Japanese life expectancy is among the highest in the world and it keeps on increasing. Along with the extension of life span, healthy life expectancy is also increasing. Building geriatric hospitals and nursing homes could not cover the necessity. At present, the majority of people want to receive medical care at home. Health promotion and disease prevention at preclinical stage of elderly by diets and physical activity is the only effective resolution.