The AI Tool Fighting Dementia

Japan’s rapidly aging population presents complex challenges across healthcare, caregiving and society, yet this demographic shift offers opportunities to innovate solutions for a graying world.

By 2040, an estimated 5.84 million people aged 65 or older—about 15% of Japan’s senior population—will have dementia.¹ Another 6.13 million could face mild cognitive impairment, an early stage of decline, underscoring the urgency for action.²

“Early detection is crucial,” says Tomoyuki Namatame, vice-president at Nippontect Systems, a Japanese healthcare technology company. “But traditional screening methods are often expensive, time-consuming and daunting.”

The UK-based Alzheimer’s Society³ emphasizes the benefits of early screening: “A diagnosis opens the door to emotional, practical, legal and financial advice and support.”

Yet fear remains a barrier. Many are reluctant to visit a clinic due to anxiety about what they might learn. “There's a sense of dread around dementia,” Namatame says. "That can stop people from seeking help when it matters."

Healthcare providers face a big challenge: Making early detection accessible, affordable and less intimidating.

Nippontect Systems developed ONSEI to address this need.

ONSEI uses AI-powered voice analysis to detect potential signs of cognitive decline. The process is easy and non-invasive. Users speak into a device, answering one simple question, and the AI produces a readout. All within 20 seconds.

“It’s not a diagnosis,” explains Setsuo Kinoshita, head of research and development at Nippontect Systems. “It’s a check, like taking your temperature. It helps people decide their next steps without pressuring them.”

Unlike traditional tests, ONSEI is designed for daily life. Its goal is to empower users to act early and often. Crucially, it links them to community resources and encourages healthier behaviors.

Local governments have integrated ONSEI into public health programs—thanks largely to promising results. Research shows ONSEI to be roughly 98% accurate in identifying cognitive changes.⁴

In Tokyo, residents can use the tool at home or as part of local government facilities.

“At first, people were hesitant,” says Namatame. “Once they saw how easy it was, they embraced it.”

Beyond detection, ONSEI fosters social participation. Regular checks help older adults stay engaged in work, volunteering and exercise. ONSEI is also being used at the Silver Human Resources Center to support the employment of motivated elderly people. Research shows that maintaining social connections and physical activity can delay the onset of cognitive decline.

While ONSEI was designed with Japan’s aging population in mind, its potential is global. By 2030, 1 in 6 people in the world will be aged 60 years or over.⁵ As societies grapple with aging demographics, tools like ONSEI could offer a model for managing cognitive health.

“We’ve created something for Japan’s needs,” says Namatame. “But the need for early detection and prevention is universal.”

Japan is tackling its aging crisis with innovation.

ONSEI shows how AI can simplify dementia screening, reduce anxiety and promote healthier lifestyles. Beyond detecting decline, it’s a bridge to dignified aging.

Namatame sees dementia checks becoming integrated into everyday health routines—as simple as monitoring blood pressure. The approach is not only for the elderly. “Beginning screening before the onset of old age,” he says, “can foster crucial preventive approaches.”

As dementia rates climb, ONSEI offers lessons for the world. That means AI-led detection, community engagement and better outcomes for millions.

Japan may be aging faster than anywhere else, but it’s also leading the way.