On the 2nd, the government compiled a basic plan for dementia measures. It incorporates a new way of thinking that “even if you develop dementia, you can continue to live your life with hope and in the way you want,” and has set a key goal of promoting this idea. It also points out that it is important to live together with people with dementia, supporting each other, rather than treating them as “objects to be supported.” The plan is due to be approved by the Cabinet at the end of this month.

The proposal was presented at a meeting of stakeholders and was approved in principle. For the first time, a person with dementia is participating as a committee member in the meeting. With the rapid aging of the population, the proposal hopes to eliminate the misunderstanding and prejudice that “if you develop dementia, you will be unable to do anything,” as society has become one in which anyone can develop dementia.

The draft plan defines a new view of dementia as “even if you have dementia, there are things you can do and things you want to do, and you can continue to live your life as you want, connected with your peers in the neighborhoods you are familiar with.”