What do we know about ikigai (purpose in life) in research on ageing, health and wellbeing? A rapid literature review

Abstract

Background In public and policy discourse, ageing is often framed both as a source of societal challenges and causes for celebration. Researchers have been exploring how people can lead not only long but also happy and healthy lives to the fullest. Ikigai (‘sense of life worth living’) was discovered as a key factor which can potentially explain positive ageing in Okinawa, one of the five Blue Zones. This article focuses on this concept (originating in the 1960s Japan), addressing the following question: how ikigai has been applied in research into physical, mental, and social aspects of ageing. Methods A rapid literature review was conducted with a particular focus on ikigai and ageing. One keyword, ikigai, was used to identify peer-reviewed research articles listed in the Academic Search Complete. For the ten-year period (2015-2024), 266 articles were found from a wide range of disciplines. Eliminating duplicates, reviews, non-English and non-gerontology focused articles, 62 were retained for the analysis. Results The concept of ikigai has three components: life satisfaction; challenge and personal growth; and recognition of social role. The number of ikigai-related articles quadrupled in the last decade. Four themes identified include: links between ikigai and social participation and physical and mental capabilities; impact of ikigai on cancer survivors and cardiovascular mortality; cross-cultural/ethnographic studies; and use of robots for enhancing ikigai. While Japan has been the primary research field, more than 40 percent were (co-)authored by non-Japanese. Furthermore, the Ikigai-9 Test, a scientifically validated measurement tool that assesses the dimensions of Ikigai, has been translated and applied in the UK, Europe and Turkey. Conclusion Ikigai is a widely accepted and globally researched concept in gerontology. Comprising both hedonic and eudaemonic well-being in its concept, it can be applied in the future to research based on life course perspectives and social determinants of health.