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Technology in care for the aged in Japan: two case studies
- Author:
- JAPAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT CENTRE
- Publisher:
- Japan Local Government Centre
- Publication year:
- 2009
- Pagination:
- 4p.
- Place of publication:
- London
This paper describes two case studies outlining the use of assistive technology in Japan. The first, from Okuizumo town in the Shimane prefecture, relates to the use of video phones which have been installed in 70% of all households of people 65 years and over. This allows for visual interaction with the Health and Welfare Division, who keep a watch over the well-being of its clients. This, among other benefits, frees up resources and reduces the burden on nursing and medical care centres. The second case study describes ‘Paro’, the world’s first therapeutic robotic harp seal. Paro is designed to have a therapeutic effect on patients with cognitive disorders. To date, more than a thousand models have been sold. In studies, Paro has shown to improve the brain functioning of 50% of older users with cognitive impairments, such as Alzheimer’s disease. Also, subjects that showed a positive attitude towards Paro were found to show a greater response to therapy.