#Japan #Fujitsu #Kawasaki #Meiji #rRAFU

Introduction to the Initiative

In an innovative collaboration, Meiji Co., Ltd. and Fujitsu Limited are launching a world-first initiative to implement the rRAFU® tool—designed to assess future risks of undernutrition and frailty—targeting citizens aged 60 and above in Kawasaki, Japan, starting February 2026. This project underscores the growing concern over senior health, addressing an increasingly significant societal issue as the population ages.

Why Frailty and Undernutrition Matter

Frailty and undernutrition are critical conditions that can lead to increased dependency and health complications for older adults. Often unrecognized, undernutrition can progress into frailty before individuals realize it. Traditional preventive measures frequently address visible decline only after it has become apparent. Understanding this gap, the rRAFU® initiative seeks to empower seniors to take proactive steps in managing their health, ensuring they can lead more active and independent lives.

The rRAFU® Assessment Tool

The rRAFU® (Rapid Risk Assessment Tool for Future Undernutrition Status) is an innovative tool that leverages a simple questionnaire to evaluate possible frailty risks. By answering 13 questions, participants will receive a score reflecting their risk over the next two years. The questions cover four essential domains: nutrition-related factors, dietary habits, physical activity levels, and quality of life related to food. This tool has been meticulously developed through research led by Professor Shoji Shinkai of Juntendo University, combining insights from multiple health organizations.

Introducing the Self-Care Support App

In conjunction with the rRAFU® assessment, the partners have devised a Self-Care Support App that utilizes Fujitsu's cutting-edge AI technologies. This app not only helps participants assess their future frailty risks but also provides tailored recommendations for lifestyle improvements, focusing on dietary and physical activity enhancements. Participants will actively engage with the app, selecting from various plans designed to fit their personal lifestyles, making it easier for them to implement and sustain healthier habits.

Overview of the Demonstration Project

The demonstration will involve around 240 male and female participants from Kawasaki, scheduled to occur from February 2026 to June 2026. Throughout this period, participants will receive feedback based on their rRAFU® evaluations, along with proposed lifestyle improvement plans. These plans will be communicated via email, ensuring participants stay motivated and engaged in their health journey.

Expected Outcomes and Future Plans

By the completion of this testing phase, Meiji and Fujitsu aim to deeply understand the importance of awareness regarding undernutrition and frailty among seniors. Participants will reflect on their experiences and changes over approximately three months, and evaluate the success of their engaged actions toward a healthier lifestyle. Insights gained from this demonstration will be instrumental in guiding future implementations of the rRAFU® tool and the Self-Care Support App, helping to combat frailty and undernutrition beyond the trial phase.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this partnership between Meiji and Fujitsu is not just about technology; it’s about nurturing health and contributing to a robust, supportive community of seniors who can fearlessly navigate their golden years. Through proactive measures and user-friendly technologies, both companies aspire to foster a healthier society where older individuals can thrive independently, emphasizing the significance of early intervention and self-care in combating frailty.