Responding to an Aging SocietyAiming to create a society where people can continue to shine in their own way, regardless of age
The rate of aging of societies is increasing, chiefly in developed nations including Japan.
The spread of new kinds of information technologies and the setting up of new social structures is required
for the people who will live in such societies of the future.
How can we use information technology to provide support so that senior citizens can lead comfortable lives?
We want to use AI and smart robots to help people who are concerned about long-term care and daily life.
We at SoftBank, while making the best use of the strengths of our information technology, are striving
to create an environment in which each individual will be able to enjoy the lifestyle of their choosing,
for as long as possible.
Providing a New Mobility Service
that Uses Automated Driving Technology
SB Drive Corp.is endeavoring to commercialize a mobility service that utilizes automated driving technology in an effort to create a society where everyone, including, of course, the seniors and people with disabilities, can freely get around inexpensively and safely. We are working toward the practical implementation of fixed-route buses equipped with automated driving technology which are expected to solve issues faced by transport operators, such as the driver shortage and bus line maintenance, as well as provide a mode of transportation for the elderly, etc.
Providing easy-to-use, senior-friendly services
We offer simple, easy-to-use smartphone devices designed specifically for senior citizens, even those who have never used a smartphone before. The “Simple Smartphone 4”, has a large menu display and large keys and letters making reading and typing easier.
Not only that, SoftBank is working to enrich and improve the convenience of senior citizens' active lifestyles with this model that allows them to quickly look up directions, connections, etc. thanks to its voice search that can be used by simply tapping the microphone icon.
In addition to senior-friendly operability and functions, the “Kantan Smartphone” released by Ymobile is equipped with a function whereby users can receive assistance by merely tapping the “osu dake support” (just tap and get support) icon* that when activated can detect and solve problems. If that does not fix their problems, they can directly call customer service operators free of charge for help so that they can feel comfortable about using their smartphones even if they are unsure of how to operate them.
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- *KYOCERA Corporation and SoftBank Corp. have each filed a patent for the technology.
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Providing rehabilitation support for seniors
Pepper for Biz is a corporate service that has garnered attention not only for its contributions to the business world but also for its role as a device for supporting local communities. Ittokai Group, a social welfare organization that provides day care services* for seniors, uses a day service robot app that was jointly planned and developed by rehabilitation specialists and Fubright Communications. The app offers seniors a recreational activity, which is an enjoyable form of rehabilitation exercise, whereby they move their arms and legs following Pepper's lead and learn choreographed movements while singing nursery rhymes.
Many seniors have reacted very well to and given positive feedback on their interactions with Pepper saying “Pepper's voice and gestures are so cute!” and “After a while, I began to think of Pepper as a grandchild.” Pepper also helps to lighten the load of staff members by taking on some of their tasks.
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- *Day care services are rehabilitation services for seniors that include physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech-language-hearing therapy.
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