We investigated whether or not motor ability and functional capacity of community-dwelling elderly living on an isolated island differed between males and females and between age groups. [Subjects and Methods] Using the Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology Index of Competence (TMIG Competence) and the motor fitness scale, we conducted a survey of all 73 elderly residents. [Results] Functional capacity of both males and females did not differ between age groups. Motor ability declined with age among females, but not among males. [Conclusion] We speculate that males' motor ability did not decline, because only those with high motor ability had remained on the island, as a decline would have made it difficult for them to perform fisheries work. When conducting a survey of the functional capacity of community-dwelling elderly, the addition of a motor ability survey enhances regional and gender differences.