#Japan #Health Management #Yokosuka #Asahi Beverages #Magellan Shonanshima

Promoting Health at Magellan Shonanshima through Data and Dairy Drinks

In an exciting collaboration, Asahi Beverages has joined forces with Magellan Shonanshima, a unique senior living facility located in Yokosuka City, Kanagawa, Japan. This initiative aims to improve health behaviors among residents and staff by combining dairy beverages with the monitoring of daily health data using devices like the Apple Watch. The facility's philosophy, 'making healthy people even healthier,' aligns perfectly with this innovative approach.

Background and Objectives: Using Data to Encourage Healthy Habits

Magellan Shonanshima is not just any elderly care facility; it is the only one in Japan that strives for a personalized health management experience. Residents wear Apple Watches daily, capturing data on various health metrics such as steps taken, sleep quality, and overall activity levels. A dedicated physician reviews these metrics monthly and provides tailored health advice. The aim is to encourage healthy lifestyles through consistent data-driven decision-making featuring participatory programs that help foster more robust health habits.

The current study, involving both residents and the facility's staff, aims to explore the effects of continuous dairy drink consumption combined with health data utilization on behavior changes.

Study Overview

The research began in October 2023 and will continue until July 2024, encompassing an observational month followed by three months of dairy beverage consumption, and then another month of observation. The participants include nine residents aged approximately 73 and 28 staff members, including those working in the facility's restaurant and café.

Key activities in the program include:
1. Daily intake of one dairy beverage.
2. Using Apple Watches to record health data such as steps, activity levels, and sleep.
3. Monthly check-ins with physicians and weekly surveys.

Findings: Positive Changes Across the Facility

The initial data have already started to reveal promising changes:

1. Changes in Residents’ Health Behaviors

- Improved sleep quality has led to increased morning activity, creating a stable daily rhythm.
- Enhanced awakeness has encouraged many residents to switch from quick snacks like bread and coffee to the nutritious breakfast options provided by the facility.

2. Elevated Health Awareness Among Staff

- The daily consumption of dairy drinks has stimulated a greater awareness of health amongst the staff, who have started to present more suggestions for improving services.

3. Overall Well-being of the Facility

- Sharing healthy habits between staff and residents has led to a significant boost in residents' motivation, while staff-led service enhancements have also driven up café and restaurant patronage.

Resident testimonials highlight this success: "The drink is easy to consume, and I feel more refreshed upon waking!" Meanwhile, staff reflect, "The routine of consuming dairy drinks has increased my health consciousness, leading to positive changes in my well-being."

Supporting Continuous Healthy Habits

In keeping with the seaside theme of the facility, an original design vending machine featuring surfboard aesthetics has been installed at the entrance. This machine, created in collaboration with Asahi Beverages, allows residents to have one free dairy drink daily, promoting continuous healthy habits as part of their daily lives.

Asahi Beverages’ Commitment

Asahi Beverages is known for its health-conscious product development, complementing initiatives like 'Walk for a Smile,' which connects beverage purchases to social contributions. The company's approach and Magellan Shonanshima's mission share a strong synergy. Together, they explore ways to extend healthy lifespans for senior citizens.

Future Developments: Co-Creating a Model for Future Health Care

Looking ahead, the results from this study will serve as a foundation for developing a 'future-oriented healthcare model' that involves broader community and corporate collaborations.

In a statement from our dedicated physician, "The ongoing consumption of dairy beverages exhibits positive behavioral changes among residents. This simple act of drinking encourages self-awareness about their health, leading to a reinforcement of healthy lifestyle habits, including regular exercise, balanced diets, and consistent daily rhythms. Such accumulative practices are vital for extending healthy lifespans."

Facility Overview

• - Name: Magellan Shonanshima
• - Location: 1-14-1 Sajima, Yokosuka City, Kanagawa Prefecture.
• - Type: Health-focused fee-based elderly care home
• - Opening Date: December 2022
• - Eligibility: 60 years and older
• - Residential Capacity: 50 rooms (Ocean view in entire facility)
• - Website: Magellan Shonanshima

Nestled in a stunning location overlooking Sagami Bay, Magellan Shonanshima provides both a visually captivating and health-focused living environment.