Innovative Mobility Implementation in Kyushu's Care Homes: Enhancing Quality of Life

In a groundbreaking development, the special nursing care facility "Ringo no Oka" in Fukuoka, under the management of Soyokaze no Kai, is pioneering the introduction of WHILL, a distance mobility device that can be used in walking areas without a driver's license. This initiative aims to simultaneously alleviate the mobility burden on users and the caregiving load on staff. Amidst Japan's accelerating aging population, the goal is to sustain and enhance the quality of life (QOL) for residents, allowing them to live as independently as possible.

As of 2024, Japan is nearing a staggering 30 percent aging rate (29.3%), with an estimated 7.235 million individuals requiring nursing care, highlighting the urgent need for effective solutions in elder care. This increasing demand, coupled with a chronic shortage of qualified personnel in nursing homes, has brought about challenges. Many caregiving tasks require staff assistance when residents move via wheelchairs or by walking, putting unnecessary strain on caregivers and limiting their ability to focus on more specialized tasks. This situation has prompted reforms and a growing movement towards establishing a society that supports as much independence as possible for the elderly.

Soyokaze no Kai believes in championing "dignity and independence" as its core philosophy. At "Ringo no Oka," the facility strives to provide an environment where residents feel at home, connected to the community, and can pursue fulfilling lives. Implementing WHILL is part of this commitment, where the adopted "WHILL Model C2" combines stability, maneuverability, and terrain adaptability. The device is widely used and recognized in the nursing care insurance sector.

With WHILL, users gain confidence and safety as they move seamlessly both within the facility and outside. Families visiting can now easily accompany residents, moving together at the same pace without the burden of pushing traditional wheelchairs. This innovation not only enhances the user experience but also reduces the physical strain on staff, allowing them to optimize their workload and improve overall efficiency.

"Ringo no Oka" and WHILL aim to foster an enjoyable mobility environment that supports independent living for users while ensuring that families and staff experience a more manageable and sustainable model of caregiving.

WHILL Mobility Overview

Launch Date: July 3, 2025
Operational Model: Premium model "WHILL Model C2" covered by nursing care insurance
Who Can Use: Residents of "Ringo no Oka," short-stay clients, and their families
Purpose: Used for mobility and activities within and around the facility
Usage Limitations: Weight limit of 115 kg, proper seating posture, and necessary attention for operation.

The staff and families will assess usage suitability based on resident conditions to ensure safe operations.

About WHILL

WHILL is a short-range mobility device that can navigate walking areas without needing a driver's license. The Model C2 features impressive design, the ability to surmount 5 cm curbs, exceptional maneuverability, and a smooth ride thanks to the rear suspension. Designed to be safe, it can be adjusted according to users' physical conditions. In addition to physical stores, WHILL products can also be tested and purchased at car dealerships and consumer electronics retailers throughout Japan, including Kyushu Mitsubishi Motors.

For more about the WHILL Model C2 and purchase information, visit: WHILL Official Site
To find WHILL's retail partners in Kyushu: Kyushu Mitsubishi Motors

WHILL Mobility Services

WHILL provides secure mobility solutions tailored for organizations, ensuring safe and comfortable usage within facilities and outdoors. Bundled with insurance, maintenance, and management systems, it facilitates efficient operations while enhancing the experience of visitors at care facilities.
For detailed information about mobility services, visit: WHILL Mobility Service
For inquiries, contact through: WHILL Contact

About Soyokaze no Kai

Established in 2003, Soyokaze no Kai aims to deliver meals to the elderly through the efforts of individuals with disabilities. Since then, it has expanded into elder care services, establishing the special nursing home "Ringo no Oka" in 2016. With a clear vision established in 2019, they continue to strive towards making their facility a place where residents can lead fulfilling lives and staff can enjoy a supportive work environment.
For more information, visit: Soyokaze no Kai Official Site

About WHILL Inc.

Founded in May 2012 in Japan, WHILL Inc. is dedicated to making mobility enjoyable and smart for everyone. Operating in around 30 countries worldwide, WHILL develops and provides mobility solutions that enable short-distance travel in pedestrian areas, ensuring universal access in every space.
Learn more at: WHILL Official Site