Effect of housing condition on quality of life

Abstract

The importance of good housing to support a good quality of life (QOL) has long been established, and the evidence that effective housing interventions bring significant improvement in individual health has increased in recent decades. [1][2][3] WHO also emphasized that in both developed and developing countries, improving housing conditions significantly contributes to people's well-being and developed "WHO Housing and Health Guidelines" to support countries to develop strategies for translating normative housing standards into national action. 4 People in modern society spend approximately 60% of their time at home, 5,6 and this percentage is even higher among the elderly. 7 Japan is widely recognized as a "super-aged" society as defined by at least 20% of the population exceeding the age of 65 years. It is estimated to reach 40% by 2050. 8 As a result of this changing demographic, as well as ensuing climate changes, improvement of housing conditions in Japan is required.

Influence of residential performance on residents' health status (part II): Nationwide survey of environmental performance of apartment buildings and residents' health status

“…The frequency of problems is rated on a 4-point scale (132 total points), where "often" = 0, "sometimes" = 1, "rarely" = 2, and "never" = 3 [Note 3]. Various studies have validated the effectiveness of the checklist 13,[30][31][32][33] and reported that a higher score is associated with a higher proportion of healthy individuals. The environmental performance of more than 10 000 apartments in Japan was assessed using the checklist.…”

Decarbonising homes in cities in the Netherlands

“…For example, in Japan, as a national programme, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) has supported data collection and analysis on the health benefits of home insulation, in collaboration with building and medical academia. Specifically, the study has examined electrocardiogram abnormalities in residents in cold homes, the association between indoor temperature in winter and serum cholesterol, the perception of feeling cold in the bedroom and sleep quality, and the association between indoor temperature in winter and serum cholesterol (Umishio et al, 2021[55]; 2022 [56]; Chimed-Ochir et al, 2021 [57]; 2021 [58]), these research results were compiled into easy-to-understand images for residents in order to disseminate the co-benefits easily (MLIT, 2021[59]).…”

Understanding the mental health impacts of poor quality private-rented housing during the UK's first COVID-19 lockdown

“… Chimed‐ Ochir et al, 2021 , Cresswell, 2005 , Department for Communities and Local Government, 2006 , Jones and Moon, 1987…”