Nintendo announces collaboration with nursing homes in Japan, initiative to familiarize elderly with the Nintendo Switch, titles such as Mario Kart 8 

Nintendo announced a new collaborative initiative with Gakken Cocofump on November 1. The initiative involves introducing Nintendo Switch consoles and software to assisted living facilities in Japan in an effort to improve the quality of life of senior citizens. 

Gakken Cocofump is a Japanese company that develops and operates assisted living facilities and elderly welfare/nursing care facilities in Japan. In an initiative to enrich and improve the quality of life of old-age residents, they have joined hands with Nintendo, announcing that they have entered into a collaborative agreement and will soon be starting their activities. (PR Times)  

The efforts to improve old-age quality of life are centered around the introduction of the Nintendo Switch and certain game titles to the elderly. The two companies will hold recreational events at 200 locations in Japan, aimed at users of senior housing and nursing care. The events will include playing titles such as Nintendo Switch Sports, Dr Kawashima’s Brain Training for Nintendo Switch and Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. Nintendo staff will provide support to the users. The initiative will also involve inter-generational events including seniors, cram school students and nursery schools as well as their family members. 

The effects of the activities on the users’ quality of life will be medically examined with the support of the Kyoto University Department of Healthcare Economics and Quality Management. 

Nintendo and Gakken Cocofump have apparently held multiple joint trials for the project starting February this year, organizing smaller-scale events. The results of these trials were reportedly overwhelmingly positive, with senior citizens finding the activities fun and wishing for more in the future. 

Commenting the initiative, Nintendo states, “Through such efforts, we will pursue further possibilities for the Nintendo Switch and its software, and by providing unique entertainment experiences, we aim to create a future that brings smiles to the faces of everyone, regardless of age, gender, or gaming experience.”