Japan Testing New Tech to Prevent Heatstroke among Elderly
Tokyo, Aug. 13 (Jiji Press)--Japan's Environment Ministry has launched a demonstration experiment 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 de...
Tokyo, on August 13, saw Japan's Environment Ministry commence a trial experiment to safeguard elderly individuals from the dangers of heatstroke. This initiative seeks to utilize artificial intelligence and sensors to anticipate heatstroke risks, especially as extreme heat continues to be a leading cause of fatalities among the elderly residing indoors.
The pilot test comprises three key programs. The first is an AI-based system that estimates core body temperatures and alerts users about potential heatstroke risks through a smartwatch. The second is a monitoring system that notifies designated family members via an app when indoor temperatures surpass specific thresholds. Lastly, there's a system that automatically activates air conditioners based on room temperatures.
The test employs commercially available products primarily developed by medical device manufacturers. It kicked off in June, enrolling 60 to 70 participants aged 65 and above. The trial is projected to last around four months, concluding by September. Should the systems prove to be effective, the ministry intends to offer support for their broader adoption starting from fiscal 2027.
Written by urgent.news from Nippon.com News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
