Can technology help Japan overcome its dementia crisis?

In Japan last year, over 18,000 elderly individuals with dementia wandered away from their homes, and nearly 500 were found deceased. Authorities report that such incidents have doubled since 2012, highlighting increasing pressure on the worlds most aged society. The situation is intensified by a shrinking labor force and strict limits on foreign caregivers.

The Japanese government recognizes dementia as a critical policy issue. The Health Ministry forecasts that expenses for dementia-related health and social care will climb to 14 trillion yen ($90bn; 67bn) by 2030, up from nine trillion yen in 2025.

Turning to Technology for Assistance

The governments latest plans emphasize technology to relieve some of the strain. GPS-based tracking is becoming widespread to monitor wandering patients. Certain areas offer wearable GPS devices that immediately alert authorities when someone leaves a designated zone. Convenience-store employees in some towns also receive real-time notifications, creating a rapid-response community network to locate missing individuals.

AI and Robot Caregivers

Innovations also focus on early dementia detection. Fujitsus aiGait employs AI to analyze posture and walking patterns, spotting early warning signs like shuffling, slow turns, or difficulty standing. This system produces skeletal outlines for clinicians to review during routine check-ups.

"Identifying age-related conditions early is essential," says Hidenori Fujiwara from Fujitsu. "Using motion-capture data, doctors can intervene sooner and help people stay active longer."

Meanwhile, Waseda University researchers are developing AIREC, a 150kg humanoid robot intended as a next-generation caregiver. It assists with tasks such as putting on socks, cooking eggs, and folding laundry, with future plans for diaper changing and preventing bedsores. Similar robots are already active in care homes, playing music, guiding light exercise, monitoring sleep, and reducing the need for constant human supervision.

Assistant Professor Tamon Miyake notes that fully intelligent humanoid robots capable of safe interaction will take at least five more years. "They require full-body sensing and adaptive understanding for each person and situation," he explains.

Robots for Social Support

Emotional and social care is also a focus. Poketomo, a small 12cm robot, can be carried in a bag or pocket, reminding users to take medication, offering weather updates, and providing conversation to reduce isolation.

"Our goal is to address social challenges using new technology," explains Miho Kagei of Sharp.

The Role of Human Connection

Despite technological advances, human interaction remains irreplaceable. "Robots should support, not replace, human caregivers," emphasizes Mr. Miyake. "Their primary role is to assist both caregivers and patients."

The Restaurant of Mistaken Orders in Sengawa, Tokyo, demonstrates this approach. Founded by Akiko Kanna, the caf employs people with dementia as servers, offering them a sense of purpose and engagement. Toshio Morita, a server at the caf, uses flowers to remember customer orders, finding enjoyment in the interaction despite cognitive decline. The caf provides his wife with respite while keeping him involved.

Kannas initiative illustrates that while technology offers tools and relief, meaningful engagement and human connection are vital for sustaining people living with dementia. "Honestly? I wanted a little pocket money. I like meeting all sorts of people," says Morita. "Everyone's different thats what makes it fun."

Author: Caleb Jennings