International Discussion Forum 2025 — Program Report

Overview

The International Discussion Forum 2025 was held from May 21 to 23, 2025, with the theme “Addressing Social Isolation and Loneliness Among Older People.” This year’s program, building on two previous invitation programs in 2023 and 2024, was designed to promote mutual learning and active participation, and officially adopted the new name, International Discussion Forum.

Funding by THE TOKYO CLUB

Twelve participants from overseas joined Japanese participants for a three-day program that featured expert lectures, group discussions, site visits, and international sharing through Country Reports. The Forum successfully concluded with meaningful exchanges and new insights gained by all participants.

Program Schedule

＊May 21 (Wednesday)

• 　Opening Lecture by Professor Sakamoto
• 　Group Discussions and Sharing
• 　Site Visit to Adachi Ward ("ADACHI Zero Isolation Project")
• 　Welcome Reception

＊May 22 (Thursday)

• 　Lecture and Practical Demonstration on Artrip by Ms. Hayashi
• 　Lecture and Group Discussion by Professor Horie

＊May 23 (Friday)

• 　Country Report Presentations
• 　Overall Reflection and Wrap-Up by Professor Horie
• 　Farewell Gathering

Lectures Summary

Lecture 1: Promoting Social Participation of Older Adults — New Perspectives on Support and Inclusion

Haruka Sakamoto (Visiting Professor, Graduate School of Public Health, St. Luke’s International University)

As aging progresses and family structures shift, an increasing number of older adults experience social isolation, posing significant public health concerns. The lecture provided an overview of current measures in Japan, Asia, and Europe, and explored future strategies needed to address this growing issue.

Lecture 2: Artrip — What Art Can Do to Aging and Isolation

Yoko Hayashi (Representative Director of ArtsAlive; Part-Time Lecturer, Hitotsubashi University)

This session introduced Artrip, a dialogue-based art appreciation program for people with dementia and their families. The lecture included a practical demonstration showing how art-based engagement can enhance well-being and foster social connections.

Lecture 3: Rebuilding Dignity and Connectedness — Japan’s Approach to Social Isolation and  Loneliness Among Older People

Hiroshi Horie (Professor and Assistant to the President, Director of the Center for Community-based Integrated Care Systems, Fujita Health University)

This lecture addressed emerging challenges such as crimes targeting older adults, caregiving burdens, and solitary deaths, which are increasingly shared across Asia. Solutions discussed included strengthening community networks, advancing research and industrial collaboration, and fostering international cooperation to protect the dignity and health of older adults.

Site Visits

Participants visited initiatives within Adachi Ward’s Zero Isolation Project, directly related to the Forum’s theme:

• Salon Nagomi (Hanahata Apartment Complex): A community space providing a sense of belonging for older adults.
• Rokumaru Walking (Rokucho Area): A walking group promoting community monitoring and social interaction.

Through these visits, participants engaged with local residents, learned about the significance of these activities, and gained valuable insights through direct interaction.

Country Reports

Participants shared the current challenges and situations in their respective countries through Country Reports:

(* Titles with an asterisk are excerpts from slides prepared by the Secretariat.)

Conclusion

Although this marked the first year under the newly relaunched International Discussion Forum title, the program successfully concluded thanks to the support and cooperation of many individuals. Valuable discussions and exchanges took place, providing new perspectives for all participants. Preparations for next year’s Forum are already underway, and we look forward to continuing this important international dialogue.