Japan's 4th National Conference on Elderly Welfare Facilities to Address Aging Challenges

Japan's 4th National Conference on Elderly Welfare Facilities

This year marks the 4th hosting of the National Conference on Elderly Welfare Facilities, also known as the JS Festival, set to take place from December 4 to 5, 2025, in Yamaguchi City, Japan. This event is a significant convergence of key stakeholders in the elderly care sector, driven by the evolving demographics and pressing needs of Japan's aging population.

Context

Japan is grappling with rapid aging, with projections indicating that by 2040, the nation will have approximately 22.39 million senior citizens, representing over 20% of the total population. This inevitability brings forth the challenge of escalating healthcare and caregiving demands. Amidst a declining birth rate and a shrinking labor pool, the sector faces a critical shortage of caregivers, exacerbated by wage disparities and an employment market favoring job seekers. A sustainable caregiving framework is urgently needed to address these compounded challenges.

Additionally, rising costs—such as food expenses—are putting immense pressure on care facilities and businesses. To navigate these hurdles, strategic initiatives focused on operational efficiency and the promotion of diverse workforces have become paramount. Progress in fostering a community-oriented care system, empowering women in the workforce, and supporting the integration of foreign caregivers are vital to enhancing service quality and offering higher value in care.

This year's JS Festival aims to redefine the perception of caregiving by not only addressing the systemic issues but also by empowering individuals to enact