Exploring New Business Models Around Death and Dying: QOL to QOD

New Perspectives on Death and Dying

The Japanese Planning Institute (JPI) is conducting a crucial seminar titled "From QOL to QOD: New Business Models Supporting Life and Death," scheduled for September 22, 2025. As a nation, Japan is facing a significant demographic shift with an increasing elderly population, requiring new strategies in the healthcare business that prioritize both quality of life (QOL) and quality of death (QOD).

The Imperative for Change

In our aging society, the balance between QOL and QOD has become paramount. Healthcare services that cater not just to living well but also to dying well are increasingly in demand. This seminar, led by Dr. Tomomi Ishii, an expert in healthcare business management and a guest professor at Tama Graduate School of Business, will delve deep into how businesses can innovate in this space.

Seminar Highlights

1. Understanding QOL and QOD:
- The seminar begins by addressing the rising healthcare business market projected to expand significantly by 2040. With Japan’s unique circumstances surrounding death and dying, we need to focus on well-being and determine happiness and dignity in the final moments of life.
- Discussions will include critical insights into how family dynamics and societal expectations shape death practices in Japan, as well as an emphasis on the individual's dignity during this transition.

2. Exploring Business Opportunities:
- There are abundant opportunities for healthcare and caregiving professionals to engage in death-related services, especially in home healthcare and funeral industries. This seminar will showcase innovative concepts and products that can resonate with the needs of families encountering end-of-life scenarios.
- Participants will learn about successful case studies that demonstrate effective business models catering to QOD, ranging from hospices to personal care services.

3. Interactive Q&A Sessions and Networking:
- Following the core presentations, an interactive question-and-answer session will enable participants to engage with the speaker directly, fostering deeper understanding and connection around the topics discussed.
- In addition, there will be opportunities for attendees to exchange business cards and expand their networks, creating pathways for new business collaborations.

4. Versatile Participation Options:
- Participants have the option to join either in person, via live stream, or through recorded content available for two weeks post-seminar, ensuring accessibility and flexibility. Each registration includes comprehensive access to all seminar materials and discussions.
- The registration fee is set at ¥35,390 for individuals, with discounts available for additional attendees from the same organization.

Conclusion

The JPI seminar is not just another educational experience but a vital opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions about life, death, and the evolving landscape of healthcare services focused on these significant moments. Through collaborative sharing of insights and strategies, participants can explore how to develop new programs and business ventures tailored to meet the demands of our aging population. Don't miss this chance to reshape your understanding of end-of-life care and contribute to this essential discourse.

For more details and to register, visit the official JPI seminar page here.