#Japan #Tokyo #Eisai #Wellness Dining #MCI Awareness

Wellness Dining and Eisai Partnership to Address MCI and Dementia

In today's aging society, the importance of understanding Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI)—the precursor to dementia—has gained significant attention. With approximately 30% of the population in Japan aged 65 and older, the need for awareness and early intervention is crucial. Wellness Dining, a company specializing in meal delivery tailored for lifestyle-related diseases, has announced its partnership with Eisai Co., Ltd. to promote awareness and information regarding MCI and dementia. As part of this collaboration, both companies will work towards disseminating accurate knowledge about MCI and dementia, providing resources for meal delivery users, and developing menus that contribute to reducing risks associated with cognitive decline.

Tackling MCI in a Rapidly Aging Society

Japan is experiencing unprecedented aging, with 30% of its population over 65 years old. In this context, brain health—specifically, the maintenance of cognitive function—has become as vital as physical health. Early detection and intervention are critical for MCI, a condition that poses risks of advancing to dementia. While MCI has potential for improvement through lifestyle changes, it remains insufficiently recognized, often dismissed as merely a consequence of aging. Promoting awareness and appropriate care during the MCI stage is essential for preventing dementia.

To build a society capable of timely intervention before dementia develops significantly, it is vital to spread knowledge about MCI and provide triggers for correct actions and information.

Wellness Dining resonates deeply with Eisai's long-standing commitment to MCI awareness and has decided to actively support their initiatives aimed at promoting awareness and information sharing. Together with Eisai, a leader in the field of dementia, Wellness Dining will embark on a journey to foster awareness and prompt actions from the position of a meal delivery service provider.

Extensive Experience in Meal Delivery for Lifestyle Diseases

Wellness Dining operates under the principle that 'daily meals build health.' We specialize in frozen meal delivery for conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, and hypertension, having delivered over 25 million meals nationwide. Our customers, often health-conscious individuals and families, take proactive steps towards managing their medical conditions through food.

However, we frequently receive queries related to cognitive concerns, such as increased forgetfulness or noticeable changes in behavior among family members. Particularly from families, there are worries regarding the adequacy of food consumption and concerns that individuals may not recognize their cognitive decline.

Recognizing that we are not a medical institution and lack specialized knowledge in dementia, our previous guidance was limited to advising individuals to consult healthcare professionals. However, our connection with Eisai allows us to establish a framework for support and awareness based on accurate knowledge.

Initial Steps Connecting MCI to Nutrition

The collaboration will capitalize on Eisai’s guidance, structured under the supervision of the National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology, focusing on three key actions:

1. Sharing Accurate Knowledge: Our team will receive information from Eisai to disseminate accurate knowledge about MCI and dementia, enhancing our staff's capabilities in understanding and addressing these issues.

2. Awareness Raising Activities: Regular newsletters and flyers will be issued to clients who utilize our meal delivery service, informing them about MCI's characteristics, the importance of early detection, and encouraging consultation with healthcare providers.

3. Menu Development Focused on Cognitive Maintenance: Based on the insights from over 8,000 reviewed domestic and international studies, we will develop meal options that prevent malnutrition and frailty, while addressing nutritional balance to mitigate risks of cognitive decline.

By establishing a system that extends beyond just providing products, we aim to support both awareness and action through our meal offerings.

Transitioning from a Delivery Company to a Supportive Partner

Wellness Dining has traditionally focused on providing meal delivery services tailored for individuals with dietary restrictions. However, we are now shifting our perspective to emphasize not only delivering meals but also supporting individuals’ lifestyles and providing peace of mind for their families.

Addressing MCI and dementia presents challenges not only for affected individuals but also for their families. Therefore, we seek opportunities to subtly introduce triggers for awareness through daily meals.

This collaboration with Eisai represents a significant step toward realizing our vision. As we unveil possibilities for visualizing and reducing cognitive decline risks, we become even more cognizant of our role as a corporate entity contributing positively to society.

About Wellness Dining

Wellness Dining, based in Sumida, Tokyo, dedicates itself to providing thoughtful meal delivery services, specializing in dietary restrictions. Our registered dietitians strive to ensure that meals remain enjoyable even amidst dietary limitations. Our objective extends beyond simply selling meals; we actively engage with customers about their overall dietary needs, committing to supporting healthy eating habits.

For more details, visit our Wellness Dining Service site or Corporate site.