Japan testing new tech to prevent heatstroke among elderly

Japan's Environment Ministry launched a pilot project in June using AI and sensors to prevent heatstroke among elderly people, covering about 70 participants aged 65 and older through September. The project tests three systems, including an AI-based smartwatch that estimates core body temperatures, and aims to reduce heatstroke deaths, which accounted for about 85% of fatalities in 2024. If effective, the ministry plans to support adoption from April 2027.

The Environment Ministry has launched a pilot project to help protect elderly people from heatstroke by utilizing artificial intelligence and sensors to encourage them to use air conditioners properly. The initiative aims to identify heatstroke risks proactively as extreme heat continues to claim the lives of many elderly people indoors. The project features three programs — an AI-based system that estimates core body temperatures and notifies users of the risk of heatstroke via a smartwatch, a monitoring system that notifies registered family members through an app when indoor temperatures exceed certain levels, and a system that automatically activates air conditioners based on room temperatures. The test uses commercially available products developed by medical device manufacturers. It began in June, covering about 70 participants age 65 and older. The trial is expected to continue for about four months, through September. If the systems prove effective, the ministry plans to provide support for their adoption from the next fiscal year beginning in April 2027. The test will assess the frequency of malfunctions and errors in using air conditioners, as well as whether the technology encourages preventive action, such as turning on air conditioners or moving to cooler places. The ministry will also conduct a survey examining older people’s psychological resistance to new technology, as many of them are reluctant to use air conditioners. According to the ministry, elderly people accounted for about 85% of heatstroke fatalities in 2024, with most deaths occurring at home. Many elderly people and those with preexisting health conditions may have a reduced ability to sense heat and thirst, while family members and caregivers may recognize warning signs too late. The ministry aims to strengthen effective heatstroke prevention efforts through new technology amid increasing numbers of elderly people living alone and worsening shortages of caregivers.