A New Perspective on End-of-Life Planning
Nichiryoku, a leading company in silver family consulting services based in Chuo Ward, Tokyo, has announced the upcoming release of their new book titled "Surely You Will Want to Talk with Your Loved Ones: My Family's Life Journey, Reiwa 2025 Edition," set to be published on June 17, 2025. The book aims to redefine the concept of end-of-life planning by focusing on the importance of communication with loved ones, rather than merely accumulating knowledge for the future.
Emphasizing Family Conversations in End-of-Life Planning
While many end-of-life planning books are written from a practical standpoint—helping readers understand what to do when planning for their future—this book places priority on creating opportunities for individuals to discuss their planning with family members. It encourages readers to reflect on their lives and deepen their connections with those they care about. This represents a new approach to end-of-life planning that truly values dialogue and shared experiences.
The Core Principles of the Book
The book covers everything from understanding what end-of-life planning is to specific actions to take now. It is designed to support readers in taking their first steps toward engaging in end-of-life discussions by incorporating the company’s unique "Reiwa Ending Notes for Family Conversations," which inspires positive actions rather than imposing a sense of obligation.
Current Trends in End-of-Life Planning
Nichiryoku leverages its expertise to share the latest trends in end-of-life planning that are particularly relevant in 2025. Topics include:
- - Are family funerals becoming the norm?
- - How to make the most of funeral service options
- - The complexities of relocating a grave
- - Embracing diversity in end-of-life planning
The book also tackles real-life examples of "dark end-of-life planning" and introduces tools such as life graphs, life maps, and family trees—all essential components of effective end-of-life hacks.
Addressing the Needs of the Older Population
Nichiryoku's insightful research conducted in August and September 2024 highlighted that 52% of end-of-life planners over the age of 65 do not share their plans with their families. The finding prompted the company to convey that end-of-life planning is a crucial process for enhancing family relationships. The aim is to promote the importance of open discussions about end-of-life topics in society.
Origins of the Book's Publication
The publication of this new book follows the success of their previous work, "How to End Life Happily," which provided fresh perspectives on life endings based on market research concerning grave relocation. The goal with the current release is to advocate for a shift from individually-focused end-of-life planning to one that involves family communication and involvement.
To further this cause, Nichiryoku has been actively organizing lectures and forums around the concept of end-of-life discussions, including the establishment of a commemorative day for families to engage in planning discussions together.
About Nichiryoku
Founded in 1983, Nichiryoku has been at the forefront of providing innovative solutions in the cemetery and funeral industries, including Japan's first automated columbarium and floral funeral altars. The company specializes in addressing the various concerns and challenges associated with the silver life decade experience.
Company Name: Nichiryoku Co., Ltd.
Founded: December 22, 1966
Capital: ¥1.847 billion
CEO: Risa Miura
Business Activities: Funeral Services, Cemetery Operations, End-of-Life Consulting