Promoting Digital Transformation in Elderly Care Services in Takaoka, Japan

In a significant step towards modernizing care services, the Zenko Research Institute, headquartered in Minato-ku, Tokyo, has been accepted into Takaoka city's project to advance the utilization of a comprehensive care plan data integration system. This initiative, part of the 'FY 2025 Care Plan Data Integration System Utilization Promotion Model Area Project,' aims to address pressing social issues such as the rapidly aging population and workforce shortages in the caregiving sector.

Overview of the Care Plan Data Integration Promotion Project

The Care Plan Data Integration Promotion Project seeks to enhance the efficiency of operations within care facilities and establish standardized workflows that promote collaboration among service providers. Recognizing the urgent need for optimized caregiving in light of Japan's demographic challenges, Zenko Research will provide support to around 100 caregiving institutions in Takaoka. This will include not only the implementation of the care plan data integration system but also various training sessions in ICT and a robust support framework to assist caregivers in adopting digital solutions.

Zenko Research will be conducting at least five information sessions and ICT training workshops for local caregiving organizations, with a minimum of three available for in-person attendance. Furthermore, a dedicated support desk for inquiries and implementation assistance will be established, ensuring that caregivers feel confident as they transition to more technology-driven practices.

Key Initiatives and Support

The initiative will also involve quantifying the impact of the integration system, alongside the creation and submission of operational reports and a collection of best practices that can be shared across the region. The collaborative approach that Zenko Research brings, alongside other local organizations, is aimed at promoting digital utilization on a community level, which is essential for establishing a sustainable caregiving infrastructure.

Plans for 2025

As Zenko Research projects further into 2025, they are strengthening their focus on nurturing digital transformation personnel within the caregiving sector. Their strategy not only centers on immediate project goals but also extends towards fostering a wider adoption of digital practices across Japan, with initiatives already planned in over 32 regions, impacting more than 1,000 caregiving facilities.

The organization emphasizes an adaptive and responsive approach to support, aiming to ensure that the unique challenges faced by caregiving professionals are met with effective solutions.

Zenko Research's Mission

Zenko Research operates under the philosophy of acting as a model for operational excellence and leading the future of the caregiving industry. With insights gathered from the Shinonome Welfare Institute, they aim to disseminate knowledge both domestically and internationally. The intent is clear: improve sustainability in caregiving services not only through institutional facilities but also through home services by expanding the understanding and application of the care plan data integration system. This initiative aligns with efforts led by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare to digitalize home caregiving services, thus directly participating in this vital process.

Through strategic partnerships and collaboration with organizations like the NPO Tadakayo, Zenko Research creates frameworks for support and advisory roles that bolster efficiency and productivity among caregiver institutions. Together, they aspire to generate model areas in Miyazaki Prefecture, showcasing successful operational improvements that can be replicated elsewhere.