#Japan #End-of-Life Care #Legal Support #Shibuya #Shimada Group

Online Seminar Explores End-of-Life Preparation

In December, Shimada Group Co., based in Shibuya, Tokyo, organized a free online seminar through its affiliated organization, the Shimada Tayori no Kai. This event aimed to provide expert knowledge on end-of-life preparations, drawing attention from family members and individuals gearing up for this journey. Participants left with resonating feedback, reflecting their learning experiences and insights regarding caregiving and related decisions.

The Importance of Third-Party Support

The seminar kicked off with a talk from Nobuhiro Kuninaka, a board member of Shimada Tayori no Kai. He emphasized that even within familial relationships, a lack of communication often leads to inadequate preparedness, stressing the necessity of involving a third party for end-of-life and death arrangements. This discussion highlighted the evolving need for professional assistance in personal matters that families might find uncomfortable or challenging to address.

Transitioning from End-of-Life to Present Living

Following this, attorney Toshihiko Noguchi, representing Ryoma Law Office, illuminated the shift from end-of-life considerations to living well in the present. He underscored some critical points:

• - Value Gap in Perspectives: Japan's constitutional individualism contrasts sharply with societal norms that often lean towards collectivism and familial ties, creating conflicts in understanding end-of-life wishes.
• - Dignity in Personal Decision-Making: Individuals should strive to make their own informed decisions about their healthcare and financial legacies. Early conversations should focus on essential choices surrounding property and medical care—specifically, who will handle what and how.
• - Concrete Methods for End-of-Life Preparation: Discussions revolved around managing asset contracts, the significance of wills, and making healthcare decisions while one can still communicate preferences.

Courage in Seeking Professional Guidance

Kamineta Eriko, a care support specialist, elaborated on the services for identity guarantee, sharing practical examples of their importance in real-life scenarios. Noguchi concluded his remarks by encouraging participants to embrace legal support for matters that might feel overwhelming, asserting that it’s perfectly normal to require external assistance in navigating legal complexities.

Participant Feedback: A Success

Survey results from attendees indicated a high satisfaction rate, with most participants expressing contentment with the seminar's scope and execution. A significant takeaway for many was the reassurance provided by the collaboration between legal professionals specialized in family issues. Comments from participants highlighted the educational value of focusing on legal aspects, prompting them to reassess their perspectives and the need for clear communication with family about sensitive topics such as medical care and funerals.

Nobuhiro Kuninaka remarked on the prevalent age demographic of middle-aged attendees, noting that many were simultaneously addressing their own end-of-life considerations while managing their parent's preparations. He acknowledged that there remains a common belief that family matters should be handled internally and expressed his commitment to advocating for broader understanding and acceptance of external support in end-of-life planning.

Event Details

• - Date: December 6, 2025
• - Format: Online (Zoom Webinar)
• - Cost: Free
• - Speakers: Toshihiko Noguchi, Nobuhiro Kuninaka, and Kamineta Eriko

The Shimada Tayori no Kai offers vital services, including identity guarantee and assistance during medical and legal procedures, prioritizing the wishes of clients. Their experience, built over 20 years in elder care, positions them as a leader in developing support services for the aging demographic in today’s society.

For more information, visit Shimada Tayori.