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WINK Initiates Community Seminar for Childless Elderly

The general incorporated association, WINK, based in Shinjuku, Tokyo, has been awarded a grant from the Bunkyo City Council to carry out an innovative project aimed at supporting the elderly without children. The seminar, titled "Pre-Ending Activity Seminar & Workshop for People Without Children," will be held on November 29, 2025. This initiative responds to the growing societal challenge faced by a significant number of elderly individuals who lack family support, particularly in light of changing family structures and values.

WINK has previously facilitated online communities for childless individuals to connect and discuss their future. However, a common issue identified through these discussions is the weak connection many have with their local communities. In times of need, a solid community connection can be invaluable for those without children, making it easier to seek nearby support. Unfortunately, many childless individuals often find themselves isolated from local networks, presenting additional challenges as they age.

In recognition of these issues, the upcoming seminar will focus specifically on the unique challenges faced by childless seniors. To provide effective strategies and guidance, WINK will invite a leading expert in eldercare and social interaction among seniors, Kanae Sawamura. There will be opportunities to gain insights into living independently in an aging society while fostering community involvement.

Target Audience and Event Features

This event is designed for residents of Bunkyo City aged between 45 to 65 years who do not have children. Unlike typical end-of-life seminars that cater to those 65 and older, WINK recognizes that individuals in their 40s and 50s might already be experiencing anxiety regarding their future, driven by experiences such as caring for aging parents.

Key Aspects of the Seminar:

• - Awareness and Education: The seminar will raise awareness regarding issues like inheritance, end-of-life planning, and long-term care, tailored specifically to those without children.
• - Community Engagement: A major focus will be on enhancing ties between participants and their neighborhoods, encouraging the development of social ties that can act as support networks.
• - Feedback for Future Policies: In addition to the discussions, the seminar aims to gather insights and feedback from participants which will be shared with the Bunkyo City Council to help shape future initiatives aimed at supporting childless elderly residents.

Event Details:

• - Date & Time: November 29, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
• - Location: Bunkyo Community Center, Basement Level 1, C-base

Address: 4-15-14 Hongou, Bunkyo, Tokyo

• - Participants: There will be a limit of 30 in-person attendees and 90 online attendees for the keynote speech.
• - Cost: Free, with mandatory pre-registration.

Program Schedule:

• - Keynote Speech: "Navigating the 'Lonely Refugee Era' for Childless Individuals – Engaging with Community" presented by Kanae Sawamura, a psychologist specializing in elderly issues. She will address pressing problems and potential solutions during her talk.
• - Dialogue Session: Participants will engage in a casual discussion format (World Café) to explore personal preparedness, community needs, and potential contributions they can make.

Kanae Sawamura brings extensive expertise in elderly psychology, from her academic background at the University of Tokyo to her impactful research work at the Japan Research Institute. WINK encourages active participation from the community to promote better living conditions and a supportive network for the childless elderly population.

For those interested in attending, you can register online through WINK's official site or the event page: WINK Childless Elderly Seminar Registration.

About WINK

Founded in 2021, WINK aims to address the challenges faced by childless individuals and is dedicated to creating supportive environments for such individuals through various programs and initiatives. Further details about WINK and its mission can be found on their website.