Authors
Akisaka M. Tanaka Y. Suzuki M.
Institution
Research Center of Comprehensive Medicine, School of Medicine, University of
the Ryukyus.
Title
[Longitudinal and comprehensive follow-up study of the
oldest man in Japan].
[Japanese]
Source
Nippon Ronen Igakkai Zasshi - Japanese Journal of
Geriatrics. 34(4):312-23, 1997 Apr.
Abstract
The oldest man in Japan
reached the age of 112 years in October 1996. As an Okinawan centenarians, he
had been followed closely for the previous 12 years. One sister, 8 years
younger, was alive at the start of the study; all other family members were
killed in the Okinawan War, 1945. The man did agricultural
work until age 85, after which he continued to be physically active and to
pay close attention to his health. Results of medical examinations, including
blood tests, remained within the normal limits, with a few exceptions. Some
abnormalities were found on the electrocardiogram; the red blood cell count
and the hemoglobin and hematocrit values decreased relatively slowly. His
intake of nutrients was relatively well-balanced, and at the age of 100 his
intake energy was 1361 kilocalories per day, which is close to the value
recommended for centenarians. His personality was categorized as "Type A",
but the pattern was typical of that seen in other Okinawan centenarians. He
was able to perform almost activities of daily living until the age of 108.
At that time he was admitted to the hospital and his ability to perform those
activities decreased sharply. His scores on the revised version of the
Hasegawa dementia scale was within the normal range when he was 106 years
old, but 3 years later it was in the "dementia" range. The rapidity of the
decreases in his mental status and in his ability to perform activities of
daily living that occurred when he was admitted to the hospital indicate
that, if circumstances permit, elderly men may benefit from living at home
with their families. Close attention to diet and exercise from youth through
senescence may also contribute to health and longevity.