○ If we could do more to support the independence of those in need of care.
○ If we could do more to reduce the burden on caregivers.
As Japan enters an aging society, there is a growing need to accelerate efforts to address these issues.
To promote the development, practical application, and adoption of care technologies, and to establish the necessary environment—including the creation of standards and standardization—for their introduction into care settings, the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) has been implementing the "Project to Promote the Development and Introduction of Robotic Care Equipment" since fiscal year 2013, followed by its successor project, the "Project for the Development and Standardization of Robotic Care Equipment," since fiscal year 2017.
This website provides a variety of information regarding the introduction of care technologies into care settings by presenting information from various perspectives, including the national government, organizations, and companies.
About This Site
This site aims to help everyone involved in care technology gain a correct understanding of how care technology should be utilized safely and effectively in care settings, and to promote its development and adoption. This site provides a variety of information from the government, organizations, and companies regarding the introduction of care technology into care settings and the development of care technology, including the "Care Technology Project"*1* being promoted by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) and the Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development (AMED)*1*.
Definition of Care Technology
Care Technology
- care equipment and systems that apply scientific and technological advancements such as robots, ICT, and AI
.
Basic Policy for Care Technology Development
While research and development in care technology has become increasingly active, it remains in the early stages of research and development with regard to its "practical implementation." The "Project to Build Evidence for the Social Implementation of Care Technology" is an initiative being advanced toward practical implementation.
The following two points are required as basic policies for the development of practical care technology.
Basic Policy 1:
View the purpose and effects of care technology in terms of its impact on "people." It is not merely about pursuing performance as an end in itself. Care technology must be developed and utilized with the clear objective of "improving the lives and well-being of people."
Basic Policy 2:
Care technology is positioned as a physical means to practice “enhanced care.” It is not merely a supplementary care tool designed to compensate for physical limitations. Instead, it is situated within a comprehensive care program that takes into account the interrelationship with care provided by people.
Priority Areas for Care Technology Utilization
The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) and the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) have established “Priority Areas for the Use of Care Technology” to promote contributions to care settings and foster the creation of new industries through care technology. Support programs, such as subsidies, are being implemented for these priority areas.
Reference: Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), “Revised ‘Priority Areas for the Use of Robotics in Care’” https://www.meti.go.jp/press/2024/06/20240628005/20240628005.html