Theoria Technologies and Mitani Industry Launch Project to Improve Corporate Dementia Awareness Training

Theoria Technologies and Mitani Industry: Project to Enhance Dementia Awareness

In a collaborative effort aimed at enhancing corporate response to dementia, Theoria Technologies Co., Ltd. and Mitani Industry Co., Ltd. recently launched their first joint project at Eisai Co., Ltd. on March 25, 2025. This initiative, established under a partnership agreement, focuses on crucial training sessions titled "Dementia Awareness & Response Design Training."

Objectives of the Partnership

Japan is entering an era of rapid aging, with the enforcement of the Elderly Employment Stability Law in April 2025 mandating employment security for individuals up to 65 years old. This legal shift presents new challenges for companies, as they must address not only an aging workforce but also the potential decline in cognitive functions among employees. Theoria Technologies, as a group company of Eisai, has long conducted research on dementia, combining their extensive data and unique technologies to create an integrated approach that includes brain health management, risk reduction for cognitive impairment, and direct support for affected individuals.

On the other hand, Mitani Industry has been actively working on creating a supportive environment for older employees, having introduced a system for indefinite employment in 2021, effectively abolishing the mandatory retirement age. Both companies share a vision of ensuring that individuals wishing to continue working have the structures and support needed to thrive. To further this, they are set to implement Theoria's integrated new service package "Sonaeru Package" for corporate brain health management this summer.

Details of the First Collaborative Project

As part of this joint initiative, the first round of the "Dementia Awareness & Response Design Training" was held at Eisai on June 26, 2025. Aimed at strengthening the awareness of dementia in corporate settings, the training focused primarily on HR personnel, facilitating discussions on the challenges of transitioning to a more dementia-inclusive workplace.

Event Details

- Date: June 26, 2025
- Location: Eisai Co., Ltd.
- Participants: Members from Eisai's HR-related departments and Mitani Industry

Training Content

Session One: Dementia Awareness Training
Participants explored real case studies from Mitani Industry, discussing the challenges of recognizing dementia symptoms and addressing them within workplace environments through personal and group discussions.

Session Two: Response Design Workshop Post-Diagnosis
Attendees received insights from a support coordinator specialized in early-onset dementia, learning about current challenges and solutions related to maintaining employment for individuals diagnosed with dementia.

Insights from Eisai's Chief HR Officer

Akihiro Masaka, Chief HR Officer at Eisai, remarked on the significance of the training. Having long approached dementia as a personal concern for the company—traditionally working on treatments for Alzheimer's—they recognized the need for structured actions in the workplace regarding dementia awareness. They emphasized the importance of setting up consultation windows and conducting regular cognitive checks to facilitate early detection and support. Eisai plans to integrate tools like "Nō KNOW®" into daily workflows to allow for easy access to support and information.

Moreover, Masaka acknowledged the importance of responding to dementia in the context of the advanced older employment practices at Mitani Industry, recognizing that care for younger dementia patients is equally vital.

The Future of the Collaborative Project

Leveraging the feedback and results from the training, Theoria plans to test and optimize its solutions, including the upcoming "Sonaeru Package". Their joint ambition is to develop a brain health-focused long-term employment model that contributes to the broader aim of building a society where employees can maintain their health and continue flourishing in their roles.

This practical training program from Theoria addresses all aspects of dementia in the corporate landscape—from preparation for workforce transitions relating to dementia to care and support mechanisms when employees face cognitive challenges.

For more information about the dementia training program, please visit Theoria Technologies.

About Mitani Industry Group

Founded 97 years ago in Kanazawa, Ishikawa, and 30 years ago in Vietnam, Mitani Industry operates across six segments, striving for optimal solutions while evolving as a company.

About Theoria Technologies

Theoria Technologies, part of the Eisai group, aims to tackle social challenges related to dementia through innovative technology. They provide comprehensive services from brain health preparation to post-diagnosis care.