The non-partisan Diet Study Group on Dementia headed by House of Representatives member Hayato Suzuki held its eighth session. HGPI is currently providing planning and operations support for this study group.

The eighth session focused on the theme of building elderly-friendly communities in which people with dementia can live with hope and dignity. It had a presentation from Research Team Leader Shuichi Awata of the Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology. Mr. Awata discussed the living conditions of the elderly based on the latest statistical data and his own efforts in building a regional dementia care model for urban environments at Takashimadaira Danchi in Tokyo. He also explained the human rights-based approach promoted by the WHO which emphasizes enabling people with dementia to live with hope and dignity. Mr. Awata shared the viewpoint that instead of focusing entirely on obtaining accurate information and undertaking preventative measures, efforts to uphold the rights of and maintain respect for people with dementia is also important.

Background
The number of people living with dementia in Japan is expected to rise alongside the aging of the population. Policies to deal with this challenge are urgently needed. Japan has taken up the challenge of such polices by launching the “New Orange Plan” – a comprehensive strategy to address dementia. However, additional measures on dementia will be needed in the future. To that end, a number of House of Representatives members have formed this voluntary, regular, non-partisan study group to encourage as many House of Representatives members as possible to become interested in this issue and knowledgeable about it.

Outline
“Building elderly-friendly communities in which people with dementia can live with hope and dignity”
Shuichi Awata, Research Team Leader, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology