Alfresa and Chōraku Chōju Form Alliance to Promote Health and Curb Social Isolation

Alfresa and Chōraku Chōju Alliance Against Social Isolation

In an era where Japan's aging population is on the rise, the issue of social isolation among older adults has become increasingly significant. Alfresa Corporation, a subsidiary of Alfresa Holdings based in Chiyoda, Tokyo, and Chōraku Chōju, a healthcare venture based in Nakano, Tokyo, have officially announced their partnership aimed at alleviating social isolation and promoting healthy lifespans among middle-aged and elderly individuals.

Background and Purpose

The growing trend of single-person households among the elderly is a notable concern in today’s society. Many of these individuals suffer from social isolation, resulting in a lack of interaction with family and community, which can lead to serious health risks. Studies indicate that social isolation increases the risk of mortality by approximately 1.3 times and is linked to various lifestyle-related diseases, including heart conditions and strokes. This underscores the importance of creating preventative measures before these issues escalate.

Recognizing this need, Chōraku Chōju, founded by psychiatrist Shinichirō Mono in 2023, aims to tackle social isolation through innovative solutions. The company proposes a matching service called “Hahalu,” set to launch in September 2024, specifically targeting individuals aged 50 and above. This service will utilize advanced technologies like behavioral economics and artificial intelligence to foster social connections and mitigate isolation.

On the other hand, Alfresa Group operates under a mission to