#Japan #Senior Care #Nakano #Nakano City #NPO Silver Support

Strengthening Community Care for the Elderly

In an important development for elderly care, the NPO To-min Silver Support Center has entered into a partnership agreement with Nakano City and Advance Life Planning Inc. This collaboration, named the NIC+ (Nakano Inclusive Care Partnership) Agreement, was officially signed on October 31, 2025. This agreement aims to address critical issues faced by elderly residents, particularly those living alone. These issues include loneliness, vacant homes, and unvisited graves, and the agreement will enhance proactive support for end-of-life arrangements or “shukatsu.” Through this partnership, the NPO will leverage private resources and expertise to further community contribution activities in Nakano City.

Background and Purpose of the Agreement

The NIC+ Agreement is part of Nakano City’s initiative to create a secure community care system through public-private partnerships. By collaborating with private enterprises, educational institutions, and non-profits, Nakano City aims to utilize diverse resources and expertise. Recognizing the importance of “utilizing private resources” in building a sustainable community care system, the NPO finds deep resonance with Nakano City’s approach. The NPO plans to combine its expertise in elderly support and existing networks to facilitate an environment where seniors can continue to live with dignity in their familiar surroundings.

Main Collaborative Areas and Future Initiatives

Under this partnership, the three parties will closely collaborate on the following areas:

1. Health and welfare promotion
2. Measures against loneliness and isolation
3. Support activities specifically for elderly individuals living alone

Specific Initiatives:

• - Awareness-Raising Activities: The NPO will participate actively in city-sponsored events and conduct “shukatsu seminars” with city support.
• - Promotion of Early Intervention: By stimulating interest in preparations for old-age risks (shukatsu), the initiative aims to preempt issues related to loneliness, vacant homes, and unvisited graves.
• - One-Stop Consultation Services: Together with specialists, the NPO will set up a finely-tuned support system as a counseling point, addressing diverse concerns faced by elderly individuals, including inheritance, solitary living, dementia, and caregiving.

Meeting with Nakano City Mayor

On December 8, 2025, shortly after the agreement was signed, representatives from the NPO visited Nakano City Hall for a discussion with Mayor Naoto Sakai. The mayor expressed his desire for a system that allows elderly residents to live with dignity in Nakano as they age. He stated, “We need your support in building a community care system that enables elders to remain in their familiar surroundings for as long as possible.”

In response, the NPO committed to leveraging its agility and expertise to tackle community issues. Through this partnership, both parties aim to enhance the quality of life for elderly residents and ensure that they receive the necessary support for dignified living in their beloved Nakano community.