Transatlantic Exchange: a Quebec RQRA Delegation Explores Elderly Care in Japan

From April 15th to April 20th, 2024, the delegation of the Quebec Association of Senior Residences (RQRA) undertook a week-long study mission to Japan, organized by Dialog Health. This trip allowed members of the delegation to immerse themselves in the Japanese long-term care system, exchange knowledge, and establish connections with local professionals.

The journey began with a seminar at the Canadian Embassy, providing a cultural and systemic framework to understand the Japanese healthcare system, before embarking on a series of visits to innovative establishments and companies in the field of long-term care. The themes and speakers of this day included: Laurent Trempe, representative of the Quebec General Delegation in Tokyo, who provided an introduction to Japanese cultural context. Philippe Auvaro offered a detailed presentation on the organization and financing of the medical-social system in Japan. Representatives from Genkimura Group were also present.

Key discoveries during these five days in Tokyo:

• AS Partners Co. Ltd: This innovative company offers home care and medicalized retirement homes, integrating technology to monitor residents' health in real-time. This visit allowed the delegation to observe how technology can improve residents' quality of life and help manage care effectively.
• Shonan Robo Care Center: Here, the delegation explored the integration of robotics in care, thanks to technology developed by Cyberdyne. This visit provided an insight into the future of long-term care, showing how robotics can assist caregivers and the elderly in their daily lives.
• Aoi Care: This multifunctional care center highlighted its intergenerational model, where elderly people with Alzheimer's disease interact with the community, participating in shared activities such as cooking and gardening. This visit allowed exploration of innovative approaches, fostering social interaction and community engagement. Founded by Tadasuke Kato, this organization is led by a dedicated team that constantly strives to improve the quality of life of the elderly in Japan. You can learn more about AOI CARE by visiting our website: AOI CARE Japan - Intergenerational.
• Medagricare: This private company offers a holistic approach to long-term care, combining care facilities, clinics, and a farming community, creating a serene environment for residents. This visit allowed observation of how the integration of different aspects can contribute to a better quality of life for the elderly.
• An inspiring visit to Kotoen, led by Mr. Yuichi SUGI, General Manager. Kotoen is known for its commitment to the well-being of the elderly, offering high-quality care services in a warm and caring environment. We had the opportunity to learn more about their innovative programs and holistic approach to elderly care. Kotoen offers a unique environment where children and the elderly coexist and interact, thus fostering intergenerational exchanges and creating a sense of community. By visiting Kotoen, we were able to observe how proximity and interactions between generations contribute to the well-being of children and the elderly. This innovative approach encourages mutual respect, understanding, and knowledge sharing between different generations.
• Shizukaso: a renowned institution for its commitment to innovation in elderly care. We explored Shizukaso with Gustav Strandell, an institution renowned for its commitment to innovation in elderly care. Shizukaso's approach focuses on integrating modern technology and traditional practices to provide superior quality care. This visit allowed us to discover their remarkable initiatives and their positive impact on the quality of life of residents.

This international study mission represented a rewarding and instructive experience, immersing Quebec delegates in cutting-edge practices in elderly healthcare. The delegation returns to Canada ready to share their findings, strengthen international cooperation, and implement new approaches to improve their practices.

We thank the RQRA - Quebec Association of Senior Residences, as well as all participants of this study mission for their trust, commitment, and curiosity! We also thank our hosts and speakers for their welcome, as well as for their hospitality and collaboration, which greatly facilitated this international exchange experience.