#Japan #Tokyo #End-of-Life Planning #Family Communication #AGE technologies

The Importance of Family Conversations Around End-of-Life Planning

End-of-life planning, or "Shuukatsu" as referred to in Japan, has typically been a heavy topic that families avoid discussing. However, AGE technologies has undertaken an initiative to change this narrative through a unique approach that incorporates mealtime into these crucial conversations.

A Gentle Invitation to Discuss

The company organized an event titled "Shuukatsu Begins with Dinner" in Tokyo, aimed at encouraging families to address such topics in a more relaxed atmosphere. Research shows that discussing heavy subjects can feel daunting and lead to avoidance. This initiative focuses on creating comfortable spaces for meaningful dialogue without the pressure often associated with discussions about inheritance and life planning.

The project aims to gently push families who want to converse but struggle to find a good starting point. By centering the discussion around meals, families can engage more authentically, potentially fostering a deeper understanding and connection.

Event Overview

The event took place on November 28, 2025, bringing together a mother in her 50s and her child in their 20s for a dinner where they could organically talk about memorable experiences and their current lives. The format included structured themes facilitated by a moderator, followed by an open period where they could choose topics they wanted to discuss further.

Voices on the Table

As the conversation unfolded, the moderator posed critical questions about perceptions of inheritance. The child expressed feeling detached from the topic, as it seemed too distant to concern them. In contrast, the mother shared her commitment to being present in her children’s lives and her wish to avoid passing burdens onto them. This created a profound dynamic, revealing the mother's yearning to protect her children from the complexities often associated with inheritance.

The dialogue not only helped the child recognize the importance of the subject but also transformed the perception of "inheritance" from something distant to an area ripe for discussion. The insights shared during the meal became stepping stones towards a more constructive approach to familial relationships, grounded in love and understanding.

Mutual Discoveries

Feedback from the event participants was overwhelmingly positive. Both the mother and child reported a high satisfaction level and noted a significant shift in their perceptions of end-of-life planning. The child emphasized realizing that inheritance is not merely a future concern but a topic they can discuss proactively with family members. Likewise, the mother felt relieved to have addressed the challenges of managing their family estate, marking a key milestone in communication.

A Focus on Family Values

The initiative highlights a fundamental essence of family kindness, emphasizing how parents consider not just what to pass down, but how to alleviate burdens their children might face. This caring approach is illustrated by the mother’s desire to simplify the process for her children, ensuring familial harmony and minimizing disputes. The child's revelation of understanding this depth of care emerged as a pivotal moment that strengthened their familial bond.

A Shift in the Narrative

Ultimately, AGE technologies aims to redefine "Shuukatsu"—not as a solitary endeavor but as a valuable family journey toward discussions of the past and future. By providing a platform for familial dialogue, they hope to create a culture where discussions about family heritage and future aspirations are commonplace, nurturing an environment of openness and support.

With projects like these, AGE technologies is committed to fostering family connections across generations, ensuring everyone can naturally engage in conversations about family matters and the future.

About AGE Technologies

AGE Technologies offers a web service that streamlines the complex procedures involved in inheritance plans, ensuring that all tasks can be seamlessly handled online. With successful operations since 2020 and over 50,000 users, it's poised to continue being a trusted resource for families across Japan.

For more details about their services, visit AGE Technologies.