#Japan #Tokyo #Dementia Support #LOVOT #Orange Innovation

GROOVE X and the Orange Innovation Project

GROOVE X Inc. has recently been selected as a participating company in Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry’s "Orange Innovation Project" for the fiscal year 2025. This innovative initiative aims to foster a coexisting society where individuals with dementia can continue living in their familiar communities and lead fulfilling lives.

The projection for dementia and Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) suggests that by 2040, approximately 12 million people in Japan will be affected, with around 5.84 million suffering from dementia and about 6.13 million from MCI. This means that roughly one in three seniors aged 65 and older may encounter some form of cognitive impairment in their lifetime, underscoring the importance of supportive measures.

GROOVE X’s approach integrates its family-type robot, LOVOT, into the daily lives of dementia patients and their families. LOVOT is designed to bring joy and comfort while promoting a sense of security. This robot provides a solution through its “gentle monitoring” function, which can help in creating an environment that supports both individuals with dementia and their caregivers.

The Role of LOVOT in Dementia Care

As part of this project, the experiences of dementia patients living with LOVOT will be documented to gather feedback on the joy and companionship the robot provides. Users will also be able to utilize the features of the LOVOT app, which includes a "Diary Function" for recording interactions and a "Camera Function" for remote monitoring. These features are intended to enhance the peace of mind for both dementia patients and their families.

By collecting insights from these users, GROOVE X aims to continuously improve both the functionality of LOVOT and the services surrounding it. Their objective is to work towards realizing a coexisting society where everyone, regardless of cognitive ability, can live with assurance and dignity.

Overview of the Orange Innovation Project

The Orange Innovation Project, led by Japan's Ministry of Economy, focuses on promoting the active involvement of dementia patients in society. The initiative emphasizes understanding the true needs of individuals living with cognitive impairments and aims to develop products and services that reflect those needs through participatory development. This sustainable framework encourages the collaboration of businesses and communities to foster a stronger support system for individuals affected by dementia.

Getting to Know LOVOT

LOVOT, named to evoke love and companionship, is a remarkable creation that acts almost like a pet. When you call its name, it comes closer and gazes back at you, displaying affectionate behavior like seeking to be held. It’s warm to the touch, creating a genuine sense of life and connection. Originally designed for homes, LOVOT has also found applications in workplaces, healthcare facilities, and nursing homes as a form of mental care.

For more information, you can visit the official LOVOT website or check their special project pages. Follow them on social media platforms like Instagram (@lovot_official), X (formerly Twitter) (@LOVOT_official), and Facebook (@LOVOT.official) for the latest updates and community stories.

In summary, the partnership between GROOVE X’s LOVOT and the Orange Innovation Project represents a significant step towards supporting individuals with dementia and promoting a more inclusive society. By combining innovative technology with genuine human connection, they are paving the way for a future where everyone can thrive, regardless of their cognitive challenges.