Exploring the Health Consciousness of Entrepreneur Couples in Japan

In a recent survey conducted by NN Life Insurance Company, which supports small businesses in Japan, insightful data was gathered before the 'Good Couple Day' on November 22. The study involved 300 wives of small business owners across the nation, aiming to investigate their perspectives on marital health and well-being.

Key Findings

The survey unveiled that 68% of the participants engage in discussions regarding their health, and 81.9% of those who do believe their marital relationship is strong. This suggests a significant relationship between health discussions and marital satisfaction.

Moreover, when it comes to encouraging regular health check-ups, 65.7% of the wives actively recommend this to their husbands, while only 41.7% stated they receive such encouragement in return. Interestingly, 66.7% of both wives and husbands reported that they actually undergo these health check-ups, highlighting a reciprocal effort towards maintaining health within the marriage.

Additionally, the wives reported a higher engagement in health-promoting activities, with 71.3% indicating they take steps for their own health, compared to 60% of their husbands. This is further illustrated by the fact that a notable 62.7% of wives are concerned about their husband's health, whereas only 41.3% of the husbands feel the same concern for their wives.

In terms of activities aimed at physical health, the survey established that husbands focus primarily on health screenings (32.3%), mild exercise (28.0%), and balanced nutrition (26.3%). Conversely, the wives prioritized light exercise (50.3%), balanced diets (49.0%), and also undergo health check-ups (42.7%).

Financial Aspects of Health Maintenance

On the financial front, the average monthly expenditure on health maintenance indicated that wives spend about ¥14,649, while husbands spend slightly more, averaging ¥15,729. This reflects a shared financial commitment to health, albeit with husbands typically investing more.

Happiness and Support

When reflecting on their happiness, 42.3% of wives expressed uncertainty about whether being a wife of a small business owner brings them joy, while 67.7% believe they contribute positively to their husbands' lives. Notably, among those who expressed happiness, a significant correlation was found with their husbands' supportive behaviors towards their health.

Wives reported various stressors, with household responsibilities (33.0%) topping the list, followed by issues with their husbands' behavior (26.0%) and concern over their own income (25.0%). In addition, 61.3% of these wives acknowledged having concerns or worries, with their husbands being identified as their primary confidants.

Concluding Insights

The survey, guided by NN Life's customer experience department, suggests that mutual attention to health plays an integral role in the quality of the relationship between entrepreneurial couples. The correlation between discussing health and relationship satisfaction indicates that couples who collaboratively manage their health may foster a stronger marital bond.

Furthermore, a vast majority (88.5%) of wives who find happiness in their marriage also reported that they frequently converse about health matters. These findings underscore the importance of health, not just for individual well-being but also for marital success and the operational health of small businesses.

For further resources, information specific to wives of entrepreneurs can be accessed at the dedicated site 'Tsugunowa', which offers practical guidance and addresses unique concerns faced by these women. The intention is to provoke thoughtful discussions within couples regarding health and future planning.

Survey Overview

Conducted By: NN Life Insurance Company
Participants: Wives of small business owners across Japan, aged 20 and older.
Sample Size: 300 individuals.
Date of Survey: From August 29 to September 5, 2025.
Methodology: Internet survey.
Independent Conducting Body: Rakuten Insight Corporation.