Akari Hoshou: Revolutionizing Elderly Care in Japan
In recent years, as Japan faces a rapidly aging population, the need for reliable support services for the elderly has intensified. Akari Hoshou, a company headquartered in Osaka, is stepping up to address these challenges by offering lifetime support services, including guarantorship for elderly individuals. Recently, Akari Hoshou successfully raised funds through third-party allocation of new shares and loans from various financial institutions, including Mizuho Capital and SMBC Venture Capital.
The Motivation Behind the Funding
Akari Hoshou was founded to bridge the gap between elderly individuals living alone and the support they require as they navigate crucial life events, such as hospitalizations and moving into care facilities. With the increasing number of elderly individuals expected to surpass 10 million by 2040 in Japan, it has become more crucial than ever to ensure that these individuals have access to the necessary services. Approximately 90% of facilities and services require a personal guarantor, putting those without family or support networks at a significant disadvantage.
To counteract this issue, Akari Hoshou plans to expand its operations beyond its current locations in Osaka and Tokyo, with a new branch opening in Fukuoka by February 2026, and another in Nagoya following shortly after. These initiatives are structured to ensure that Akari Hoshou can provide effective support to elderly individuals across Japan, alleviating their concerns regarding personal guarantorship, loneliness, and dementia.
Creating Trust and Transparency in the Industry
Legal expert and Akari Hoshou's CEO, Yuuki Shimizu, recognized the importance of addressing the lack of trustworthy service providers in this realm. As a result, he collaborated with a panel of reputable professionals, including lawyers and care managers, to establish a robust support network for the elderly. The company's services not only aim to meet the immediate needs of aging individuals but also strive to build trust within the industry itself.
In August 2025, Akari Hoshou established the Japan Association of Lifetime Support Providers for the Elderly, the first of its kind in the nation. This new organization aims at implementing a unique membership system, recognizing high-quality operators to help end-users confidently choose reliable service providers.
Support from Financial Institutions
Various financial entities are backing Akari Hoshou's efforts. Mizuho Bank has actively participated in funding these initiatives to facilitate improvements in the healthcare and elderly care infrastructure, reflecting on the significance of supporting vulnerable populations. According to representatives from Mizuho Bank, creating a safe environment for elderly individuals without family support is a crucial challenge for society. They firmly believe that Akari Hoshou's work will transform elder care and support systems.
SMBC Venture Capital also expressed confidence in Akari Hoshou’s vision, noting the rising demand for dependable and ethical service providers in the sector. Their investment marks a commitment to supporting innovative solutions designed to fulfill the urgent demands of the aging population.
The Future of Akari Hoshou
As Akari Hoshou continues to expand its branches and services, it remains dedicated to developing partnerships with various entities, including healthcare providers, financial institutions, and social stakeholders. By offering trustworthy and transparent services, the company hopes to redefine how elder care and lifelong support are perceived and executed in Japan.
In summary, with the funds raised and the collaborative ensure its mission, Akari Hoshou is poised to provide essential support to the elderly, turning their fears into assurances. This initiative not only highlights the urgency of addressing elder care in a transforming society but also showcases a proactive stance toward establishing reliable support systems for a better future for all elderly individuals in Japan.