Innovative Approaches to Addressing Japan's Super-Aged Society

On May 16, 2026, the Shimada Future Foundation is organizing an insightful event aimed at promoting awareness and innovative solutions to tackle the challenges of Japan's super-aged society. The foundation, based in Shibuya, Tokyo, is led by its Executive Director, Akira Shimada. This event will feature renowned speakers and discussions centered around ideas to maintain brain health throughout life.

Keynote Speaker: Yasuyuki Taki

The event will kick off with a keynote address by Dr. Yasuyuki Taki, a prominent professor at Tohoku University’s Institute of Aging Medicine. His presentation, titled "Lifelong Healthy Brain," will delve into strategies and principles for preserving brain health. Dr. Taki's extensive research includes the development of a database utilizing MRI brain imaging, having analyzed data from over 160,000 individuals to uncover the mechanics of brain aging and development. He is also the author of several influential books, including Lifelong Healthy Brain and Memorable Brain: Important Habits for Maintaining Brain Health.

Dr. Taki aims to share practical advice and insights on preserving cognitive vitality, emphasizing the foundation's commitment to creating a better future through education and engagement.

Speech by Shigeyuki Kurihara

Following Dr. Taki, Shigeyuki Kurihara, CEO of Shimada Travel Partners, will discuss the future of travel for the elderly. With a focus on senior-friendly tourism and virtual travel experiences, Kurihara will provide insights from his work at the Osaka-Kansai Expo, explaining how travel can evolve in an aging society. His presentation will explore innovative travel proposals designed to accommodate the needs and preferences of older adults.

Student Presentations

To highlight the foundation’s commitment to fostering young talent, two scholarship recipients for the 2025 academic year will present their research projects:

- Shota Yamazaki (Kogakuin University): Theme - "Supporting Coexistence"
- Karen Shinohara (Tokyo University of Science): Theme - "Policies for Preventing Care Needs"

These presentations will showcase the fresh perspectives of youth addressing critical issues related to aging.

Panel Discussion

The event will conclude with a panel discussion on the theme of "Innovative Approaches to Designing for an Aging Society." Dr. Taki, Kurihara, scholarship students, and Executive Director Akira Shimada will engage in a dialogue about the future of Japan’s super-aged society, exchanging ideas and possible solutions.

Event Details

- Date: May 16, 2026
- Time: 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM
- Location: 30th Floor Conference Room, Shinjuku NS Building, 2-4-1 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku, Tokyo

Schedule

- 10:30 AM - Opening Remarks
- 10:40 AM - Keynote by Dr. Yasuyuki Taki
- 11:30 AM - Speech by Shigeyuki Kurihara
- 11:45 AM - Break
- 12:00 PM - Student Research Presentations
- 12:30 PM - Panel Discussion
- 1:30 PM - Closing Remarks

The program details may be subject to change without notice.

Registration

The event is open to the public, and anyone interested can register via the designated form here.

- Registration Deadline: May 13, 2026
- Capacity: 50 participants (first-come, first-served)

Contact Information

For inquiries, please reach out to the Shimada Future Foundation office at:

- Address: 3-22-7 Yoyogi, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 151-0053
- Phone: 03-6275-2222
- Email: [email protected]
- Official Website: Shimada Future Foundation

As Japan navigates an urgent demographic transformation, this event aims to catalyze dialogue and innovation towards creating a vibrant future for the elderly community. By integrating diverse perspectives and fostering collaboration, the Shimada Future Foundation strives to inspire a society where individuals can thrive irrespective of age.