The Success of Sagae City's App-Based Dementia Prevention Initiative

In Sagae City, Yamagata Prefecture, a pioneering project titled 'App-Based Dementia Prevention Program (Point Savings)' has been receiving widespread acclaim since its launch. Implemented in collaboration with Bespra Co., Ltd., this initiative has managed to accumulate approximately 175 million steps over a span of about 1 year and 5 months, equating to a projected cost-saving of nearly ¥10.67 million in healthcare expenses. This remarkable endeavor is designed to not only encourage physical activities among the elderly but also to spur engagement in cognitive activities, nutrition, and health management through a gamified point incentive system.

Program Overview

debuted in December 2023, Sagae City’s program employs a smartphone application dubbed 'Brain-Healthy App' aimed at seniors aged 65 and over who possess a smartphone. The participants register for the 'Point Savings' program, allowing them to earn rewards by achieving various health-related goals such as walking, cognitive training, and dietary targets. This system not only incentivizes a healthier lifestyle but also fosters familiarity and ease with digital technology among seniors.

Impact and Achievements

As of May 2025, the results have been impressive:

- 149 participants, representing about 1.1% of the targeted elderly population, have registered.
- A total of 175 million steps have been documented, signifying a substantial increase in daily physical activity, equivalent to circling the Earth over two times with elderly participants.
- Estimated healthcare cost reductions have reached around ¥10.67 million, showcasing the potential savings driven by preventive health measures.
- Participants have collectively earned 129,309 points, which can be transformed into redeemable vouchers, enhancing both motivation and engagement in the program.

City officials recognize that participants are not only physically active but have also reported improvements in memory retention and general lifestyle, with testimonials indicating a positive shift in health awareness and habits. For example, users highlight their newfound focus on maintaining a balanced diet and regular walking, driven by the app’s incentives.

Community Engagement

Alongside individual health improvements, the 'Brain-Healthy App' has fostered stronger social connections among its users. Many participants express joy in discussing shared experiences with friends using the app, enhancing communal ties and combating the isolation often experienced by the elderly. This group engagement has further motivated users to maintain their health awareness and commitment to the program.

Challenges and Future Directions

Despite the program's success, some challenges have emerged. Feedback from users points to technological barriers, such as difficulties experienced by those using Android smartphones. Suggestions for improvement include increasing the variety of cognitive training exercises available and enhancing app usability for seniors. City officials remain optimistic, viewing these challenges as avenues for growth and refinement of future initiatives.

Comment from Bespra's CEO

Yosuke Toyama, the CEO of Bespra Co., Ltd., commented on the initiative's accomplishments: "The results indicate that our innovative program not only contributes to improving the health and longevity of seniors but also encourages municipal digital transformation efforts. We are eager to build on this success, promptly addressing participant feedback, and extending our health-promoting initiatives to other municipalities to further enhance senior health care."

Conclusion

As Sagae City embraces digital solutions to amplify health and wellness among its senior population, it stands as a model for other municipalities in Japan, demonstrating how technology can effectively be leveraged for community health initiatives. The 'App-Based Dementia Prevention Program (Point Savings)' illustrates a significant step forward in maintaining the vitality of the elderly and promoting a healthier, more engaged society overall.