Japanese dementia awareness and support initiatives

Japan is implementing various regional initiatives to address dementia through medical screening, consumer protection, and community awareness.

In Akita Prefecture, Akita University has introduced screening sessions in Kitaakita City that combine cognitive and hearing tests to provide professional advice, with plans to expand to seven municipalities by October. Meanwhile, in Kyoto Prefecture, seminars are being organized in Uji City to help families identify and prevent consumer fraud targeting those with cognitive decline.

In preparation for World Alzheimer’s Day on September 21, municipalities are launching broader awareness programs. Hakodate is hosting exhibitions, book introductions, and film screenings, alongside a planned training course for high school students and older residents to become dementia supporters. Kinokawa City is participating in nationwide efforts to plant orange-colored flowers to symbolize awareness, while also organizing health measurement sessions and supporter training to build local support networks.