INFIC Nursing Home Blog

On June 9, we visited INFIC Nursing Home, located in Kawasaki City, Kanagawa Prefecture. It was the second nursing home we visited during our study abroad program.
The visit began with a presentation from Mr. Masatoshi Masuda, who introduced us to the INFIC Group’s business model. More importantly, he introduced us to LASHIC, an IoT-based elderly monitoring and nurse call system developed by INFIC. The system is designed to support caregivers and improve resident safety through real-time monitoring and communication.

LASHIC consists of three main components: LASHIC-Call, LASHIC-Sleep, and LASHIC-Home. LASHIC-Call is a hands-free communication device that automatically answers emergency calls, allowing staff to communicate with residents even when they are unable to move. LASHIC-Sleep monitors vital signs such as heart rate and alerts staff when abnormalities are detected. LASHIC-Home helps families and caregivers monitor residents’ daily routines and identify potential signs of cognitive or physical decline.

One of the key benefits highlighted during the presentation was how LASHIC eliminates nighttime patrols and reduces the burden on long-term care staff. Rather than conducting routine nighttime checks, night-shift staff can monitor residents remotely and respond when intervention is needed. The system has also contributed to a reduction in nighttime falls by alerting staff when residents are getting out of bed, enabling timely assistance and preventing accidents.

Following the presentation, we toured the facility and explored the daycare services, the central kitchen, and the long-term care units. One feature that stood out during the tour was the elevator security system. The elevators require a unique access code to operate, helping prevent residents living with dementia from wandering unsupervised. Another notable feature was the temperature-controlled carts used in the kitchen, which ensure that meals maintain the appropriate temperature from preparation until they reach residents.

Overall, my visit to INFIC Nursing Home provided valuable insight into how Japan is leveraging technology to support caregiving in long-term care settings. It was fascinating to see how innovations such as LASHIC are being integrated into everyday care to enhance resident safety and support care staff.