Japan employs robots to help dementia patients as thousands go missing

Japan is turning to robots and AI tracking tech as dementia cases rise and thousands of older residents go missing each year.

More than 18,000 people with dementia left their homes and went missing in Japan last year, and almost 500 were later found dead. Police say these cases have doubled since 2012, and the country’s aging population and shrinking care workforce have pushed the government to make technology part of the strategy.

Regions across Japan now use wearable GPS tags that alert authorities the moment someone steps outside a safe area. Some towns route real-time notifications to convenience store staff, creating a community system that helps locate missing people within hours.

Robots taking over care roles in Japan

Care homes are also adopting robots designed to prevent dangerous situations before they happen. Many facilities now use sensor-equipped robots placed under mattresses to monitor sleep patterns, movement and potential distress. The data helps staff catch issues early and reduces the need for overnight room checks, the BBC reports.

Humanoid robots are also being developed for future care roles. Waseda University’s AIREC, a 150kg prototype, can already help with basic tasks like putting on socks or folding laundry. Researchers aim for it to eventually support more complex care, though Assistant Professor Tamon Miyake says it will take at least five more years before robots can safely handle sensitive interactions.

Other innovations target early detection. Fujitsu’s aiGait tool analyzes walking patterns to flag signs of dementia during routine checkups, giving doctors earlier opportunities to intervene.

Poketomo

Companion robots are also emerging, as connection is also vital for older people who have less interaction with carers. Poketomo, a 12cm handheld device, offers reminders, weather tips and simple conversation aimed at easing isolation.

Researchers stress that these tools are built to support carers, not replace them. As dementia-related costs continue to rise, Japan is using robotics, sensors and community tech to keep vulnerable residents safer and reduce the risks that come with people going missing.