Japanese Mobility Innovations for a More Inclusive Society
While young people traditionally drive tech adoption, longer lifespans and evolving needs have turned aging populations into end users who depend on technology to lead fulfilling lives. Nowhere is that more evident than Japan.
More than a quarter of Japan’s total population was at least 65 years old in 2020. And that ratio is forecast to reach 38% in 2050.[1]
In turn, Japanese technology companies are developing solutions to tackle the challenges of an ageing population.
“Every human being needs to feel the fresh air, sun and wind to maintain physical and mental health.”
— SANO Fumiaki, RakuRo Business Leader, Robolife Division, ZMP.
Keeping the Elderly Mobile
Many elderly people face challenges with mobility . It leads to social isolation, which affects physical and mental wellbeing. Autonomous mobility robots provide a solution. These robots do not require passengers to operate them like a wheelchair, making it easier for the elderly to go outside and interact with the community.
One example is “RakuRo®,” a single-seater autonomous walking speed robot developed by Japan’s ZMP Inc. The robot was deployed at a nursing care facility in the Tsukuda and Tsukishima areas in Tokyo as part of the “Medical Belt” concept.
Partially launched in January 2022, the robot provides a transportation service between the facility and three clinics about 700 meters away. Patients can make a reservation on their smartphone, choosing the pick-up time and destination. On the way back, the robot can go along the nearby riverside, bringing the user closer to nature, just like taking a walk.
“Every human being needs to feel the fresh air, sun and wind to maintain physical and mental health,” said SANO Fumiaki, RakuRo Business Leader, Robolife Division, ZMP. “RakuRo will help increase their mobility, safely and comfortably. Not only will the robot improve their mobility, it will also add joy to their ‘walk’ as the robots say hello to passersby, spurring communications.”
To ensure safe travel, the robot has six cameras, five sensors and an emergency stop button, and is programed to react to the surrounding environment. For instance, if a traffic light flashes before turning red or if there are objects such as people or cars, the robot will stop.
"It was safe, and I could ride with peace of mind,” one user said. “I used to like mountain climbing, but now I'm getting old and can't do it anymore. I was happy to be able to feel the wind and experience what it was like to climb a mountain during the ride.”
The participation of more nursing care homes, hospitals and clinics in the Medical Belt or similar projects will support an ageing population, connecting smaller clinics with large hospital, for example. Other municipalities could also consider offering similar services following the Medical Belt’s success in the Tsukuda and Tsukishima areas.
Co-existing With Robots
Autonomous mobility robots are one of many Japanese innovations to support the independence of an ageing population. The government is promoting the development of nursing care robots that can help with bathing, going to the bathroom, communication and more.[2] In turn, robots will play an increasingly vital role in society and people’s lives.
Today, around 60% of Japan’s nursing facilities use robots.[3] In the future, robots will help cover a projected shortfall of 380,000 specialized workers in the elder care industry.[4] And facilities designed for the use of robots that help elderly people will become more advanced and widespread.[5]
Over the next decade, senior populations in many other countries will grow. As new needs and challenges arise, Japan’s robotic innovations could play a greater role in elderly care around the world. It may not be so far in the future that people live, work and co-exist with robots in RoboTown.
