#Japan #Health Program #Nozpo #Nankoku City #Nankoku

Nankoku City’s 'Nozpo': Pioneering Health Point Program

In a groundbreaking initiative, Nankoku City in Kochi Prefecture has witnessed its health point program, known as 'Nozpo,' achieve a remarkable milestone. Over the course of 1 year and 7 months since its launch, participants in this program have collectively walked an astounding 140 million steps. This translates to approximately 8.8 million yen in estimated healthcare cost reductions, demonstrating significant outcomes in preventive healthcare and administrative efficiency through the application of ICT (Information and Communication Technology).

What is 'Nozpo'?

Launched on September 25, 2023, 'Nozpo,' which stands for “My Desired Lifestyle Support Point Program,” is a smartphone app designed for seniors in Nankoku City. Aligning with Kochi Prefecture's vision of becoming Japan's healthiest and longest-living region, this program encourages residents aged 65 and over to engage in health-promoting activities through a user-friendly application. By utilizing the 'Brain-Friendly App,' participants can enjoy various health challenges including walking, cognitive training, and maintaining a balanced diet.

Points can be earned by achieving health objectives or participating in city-sponsored events and volunteer activities. Accumulated points can be converted into PayPay points, facilitating cashless transactions during shopping and providing a strong incentive for participants. The program's core aim is to enhance the health and longevity of seniors, enabling them to remain active in their communities and sustain their preferred lifestyle.

Achievements Post-Implementation (As of May 2025)

• - Participants: 76 seniors (approximately 0.5% of the eligible population over 65)
• - Total Steps: 144,458,743 steps (equivalent to nearly two trips around the globe)
• - Estimated Healthcare Cost Savings: ¥8,811,983 (approximately 0.061 yen per step)
• - Total Points Distributed: 85,649 points, redeemable via PayPay

While the participant numbers may seem modest, with only 76 seniors partaking, the reported statistics on walking achievements and healthcare savings are impressive. The average monthly exchange of health points into shopping incentives reflects a sustainable and enjoyable mechanism for health engagement.

Efficiency and Environmental Benefits

The benefits of the 'Nozpo' initiative extend beyond the health of participants. Nankoku City hall has reported increased efficiency in administrative tasks due to the app’s implementation. Tracking volunteer points, which previously required several hours of manual labor each month, is now streamlined, saving 4-5 hours of work and significantly reducing paper use.

The transition to a digital system has diminished bureaucratic burdens and promoted a greener administrative environment, illustrating immediate economic and ecological benefits for the municipality.

Testimonials from Participants

Feedback from engaged seniors has been overwhelmingly positive. Many have shared their experiences:

• - “I check the app daily to see my ranking; it has become my routine!”

Their enthusiasm highlights how the 'Nozpo' program not only fosters engagement in healthy practices but also encourages a sense of community and competition among users.

Future Aspirations

City officials envision expanding the initiative by increasing the number of volunteer activities that qualify for point accumulation, thus encouraging broader participation among the elderly. Nankoku City expresses its intention to continue the 'Nozpo' project beyond the current fiscal year, provided adequate funding is secured.

CEO Yosuke Toyama of Besspra Comments

As the program's collaborative partner, Yosuke Toyama, CEO of Besspra, has noted the local program's success is garnering interest from other municipalities in Kochi Prefecture. He expresses optimism that the 'Nozpo' model will serve as a catalyst for promoting health and administrative digital transformation across Japan. Leveraging technology to support healthy aging remains a top priority for Besspra as it aims to expand these successful initiatives into additional districts.

Contact Information for Inquiries:

• - Nankoku City Office, Senior Support Division: Yamamoto | Tel: 088-880-6556
• - Besspra Inc.:

CEO: Yosuke Toyama
Location: 5-18-10 Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo
Founded: April 2012
Website: Besspra Inc.
Email: [email protected]

Introduction to the 'Brain-Friendly App'

This health app, developed in collaboration with leading research from the Karolinska Institute, incorporates exercise, cognitive training, and nutritional guidance to support users' wellness journeys. Since its launch in 2017, it has gained traction in various municipalities across Japan, showcasing the potential of technology to foster healthier communities.

Conclusion

The 'Nozpo' initiative in Nankoku City exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to elder care and community health, illustrating how digital tools can effectively improve quality of life for seniors while also facilitating streamlined public administration. This initiative not only paves the way for better healthcare outcomes but also sets a precedent for future collaborations between technology and municipal efforts to boost public health overall.