A new long-term study from Japan shows that older adults who regularly ride bicycles are less likely to need long-term care or die over a 10-year period.
The research, published in Transportation Research Part F: Traffic Psychology and Behaviour, adds strong evidence to the idea that cycling is not only a way to get around—it can also help people stay healthy and independent as they age.
In Japan, more older adults use bicycles for daily transportation compared to those in Europe or the United States. Previous studies have already shown that cycling boosts physical activity and social interaction, both of which are linked to better health. However, until now, no long-term studies had looked at these effects specifically in Japan.
This new study followed older adults from 2013 to 2023 and explored two major questions. First, does cycling reduce the chance of needing long-term care or dying over 10 years? Second, how do different patterns of bicycle use—such as starting, stopping, or continuing to cycle—affect these risks?
The first part of the study looked at people’s cycling habits in 2013 and compared them with their health outcomes over the next decade. The results showed that older adults who rode bikes in 2013 were less likely to end up needing long-term care or dying during that time. This effect was especially strong among people who did not drive cars.
In the second part, researchers checked in again in 2017 and grouped people based on whether they had continued cycling, stopped cycling, started cycling, or never cycled at both time points. They then followed these groups for six more years.
People who kept cycling from 2013 to 2017 had a lower chance of needing care or dying in the following years. Even those who started cycling in 2017 showed some health benefits, particularly if they didn’t drive.
The study suggests that for older adults—especially those who don’t drive—cycling can serve as a powerful tool to support good health, extend independence, and even lower the risk of death. The benefits likely come from increased movement, better cardiovascular health, and the social interaction that often comes with being out in the community.
This is especially important in Japan, where more and more older people are choosing to give up their driver’s licenses for safety reasons. In this context, cycling becomes more than just a way to get around—it becomes a “lifestyle companion” that helps older people stay engaged with their surroundings and maintain their physical and mental well-being.
The researchers also emphasized the need for better social support to encourage more older adults to take up or continue cycling. This could include safer bike lanes, programs that offer cycling education for older people, or community events that make cycling feel accessible and fun.
In short, this study highlights how a simple activity like riding a bike can have a big impact on health and longevity. As Japan faces an aging population, promoting cycling could be one practical way to help older citizens live longer, healthier lives—while also reducing the demand for long-term care services.
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The research findings can be found in Transportation Research Part F: Traffic Psychology and Behaviour.
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