In this super-aging society, care models centered around institutionalization and control have become increasingly prevalent. Particularly for older adults with dementia, this trend often leads to a lack of understanding of their psychological states, robbing them of their dignity and autonomy. In response, the Montessori Care Association Japan opened Shibahara Moca Maison, a residential care facility for older adults, in 2021. At this facility, Montessori Care is practiced— an approach that deeply respects each person’s individuality and provides care that truly attends to the heart of each resident.

At Moca Maison, residents engage in daily activities that help uncover their capabilities and preferences, which are then translated into roles they can play within the community. This enables people with dementia to maintain as much autonomy as possible, live peacefully with high self-esteem, and find purpose. The facility has also developed AI technology that interprets changes in facial expressions to detect signs of motivation or anxiety. The association organizes seminars to train Montessori dementia care workers, with around 10 participants earning international certification each year, and it also hosts study groups twice a month.

Additionally, the association renovated a traditional Japanese house to establish Moca no Ie: Living Care Hospice, where it is now pioneering new approaches to palliative care. Dr. Tetsuo Kashiwagi, who introduced the hospice concept to Japan, has spoken about the importance of addressing not only physical pain, but also psychological, social, and spiritual suffering. Building on this, the association now aims to relieve family members’ pain as well. It practices end-of-life care that honors both patients and their families, providing a space where anyone can come and go freely, enjoy hobbies, bring pets, or sip on a drink—ensuring a dignified and regret-free experience. Advanced Care Planning (ACP) is also actively incorporated.

To widely share these models, the association has presented at domestic and international conferences, published papers, and actively participated in symposiums and lectures, drawing attention from numerous media outlets. At the Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, it exhibited under the theme “Dementia That Brings Happiness” in collaboration with academic and corporate partners, gaining significant resonance. In order to leverage this response as a turning point in the values of care, the following actions are planned:

[Phase 1: 2025–2028]

The association will continue its care worker training seminars, recreate its Osaka-Kansai Expo exhibit at the International Montessori Congress in 2026, and organize exhibitions and workshops across the country. It will also strengthen its online outreach through SNS and video platforms. Collaborations with leading care facilities and local governments will promote adoption at the community level.

[Phase 2: 2029–2035]

The association will operate seminars to train regional leaders, aiming to produce 200 international certificate holders by 2035. It will establish a practice-based community where facilities that have introduced Montessori Care engage in joint training and on-site learning.

To advocate for the inclusion of an “autonomy-supportive care” evaluation criterion in Japan’s long-term care insurance system, the association will propose policies based on verified data. With an eye toward international expansion. particularly in Asia. it will partner with research and practice institutions to build successful case studies abroad.

[Phase 3: 2036–2043]

In tandem with realizing the aforementioned policy reform, the association will begin integrating Montessori Care into the curricula of universities and professional schools.

[Phase 4: 2044–2050]

To ensure that Montessori Care takes root as a cultural practice and is passed on to future generations, the association will propose and implement its incorporation into elementary, junior high, and high school curricula.

Exhibition at the Osaka-Kansai Expo

[Across All Phases]

The association aims to integrate care philosophy with technologies such as AI, and will also publish practical handbooks on Montessori Care.

Montessori Care is, in a broad sense, a philosophy of care— and more than that, a vision for a society where all people are treated as dignified human beings. The Inochi Forum will continue collaborating with organizations like the Montessori Care Association Japan to realize community-based societies where children, older adults, and people of all backgrounds hold meaningful roles and contribute together.

[References]

・Moca Maison

https://www.montessoricarejapan.com/mocamaison

・Montessori Care Association Japan
https://www.montessoricarejapan.com/

[Action Platform]
Medical and Welfare

[SDGs]