WHILL Corporation to Showcase Innovative Mobility Solutions at H.C.R. 2025

WHILL Corporation, headquartered in Shinagawa, Tokyo, will exhibit at the 52nd International Welfare Equipment Expo & Forum (H.C.R. 2025) to be held at Tokyo Big Sight from October 8 to 10, 2025. In light of Japan's rapidly increasing elderly population, which is expected to reach approximately 35% of the total population by 2040, WHILL aims to propose sustainable and efficient caregiving models that address the current shortage of caregivers and improve the quality of life (QOL) for users.

Addressing Caregiver Shortages and Enhancing QOL

As Japan faces an aging society, the proportion of the population aged 65 and over is projected to reach 40 million by 2040, while the working-age population is expected to decline by 20% to about 60 million. This demographic shift poses substantial challenges for the caregiving sector, intensifying the need to rethink care provision methods. Such a change is crucial not only to alleviate the burdens of caregivers but also to prevent the worsening of care needs among the elderly.

The Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare has highlighted the importance of integrating communication technologies, such as GPS, into welfare equipment as part of the caregiving insurance program, further emphasizing the need for innovative solutions in this area.

WHILL’s electric wheelchairs, designed for both personal use and caregiving scenarios, support users' desires to move freely and engage in social activities, significantly contributing to uplifting their QOL. By enabling greater independence in living environments, WHILL’s innovations aim to ease the physical and psychological burdens on family members and caregivers alike, creating a more sustainable care ecosystem.

H.C.R. 2025: A Platform for Innovation

During the H.C.R. event, WHILL will showcase two key models available under Japan’s long-term care insurance plan: the Model RK (handle-type) and Model CK2 (chair-type). Attendees will have the opportunity to experience the ease of operation, maneuverability, and overall comfort of these models. Users can better visualize the right mobility solutions for their needs by participating in hands-on tests at the WHILL booth.

Attendees will receive user case studies and examples of caregiving plans related to the WHILL models, alongside the latest industry information pamphlets.

Additionally, WHILL will provide a complimentary mobility service within the Tokyo Big Sight venue, allowing visitors to use the Model RK and CK2 freely. This presents an excellent opportunity for first-time and potential users to experience seamless short-distance mobility in both indoor and outdoor settings.

Moreover, WHILL is organizing a special seminar entitled "Now Is the Time! Enhancing Care Management Efficiency with ICT and AI," presented by Hirota Tanaka, CEO of Marlow Sounds Company, who will share practical insights on how ICT and AI can streamline care management jobs from assessment to caregiving.

Event Details

- Date: October 8-10, 2025
- Location: Tokyo Big Sight, Koto-ku, Tokyo
- Admission Fee: Free (pre-registration is required via the event site)
- Booth Location: West Exhibition Hall 1, Hall 2, Booth W-2055

For more details regarding H.C.R., please visit: H.C.R. Official Website

WHILL: A Catalyst for Change in Mobility

WHILL aims to redefine the experience of mobility with electric wheelchairs that require no special license to operate. Its designs prioritize ease of use and access, enabling people with various mobility needs to navigate their environments comfortably. The existing models are particularly versatile, allowing for smooth navigation over uneven terrain and quick turns while featuring removable batteries, making them convenient for home charging.

Experts, such as Mamoru Kashima from the Senior Living Welfare Research Institute, advocate for the use of WHILL vehicles, noting that independent mobility leads to improved quality of life and increased opportunities for social engagement among the elderly.

With this mission, WHILL Corporation is committed to being a leader in mobility solutions, fostering a world where all individuals, regardless of age or ability, can experience the joy and freedom of movement.