Forward a truly inclusive society ～Aging in different cultures～
編集委員会（スタッフ）／Staff 01
13/11/2025
About “Counterpoint Japan”
Counterpoint Japan, https://counterpointjapan.wixsite.com/my-site-6, a non-profit organization, was established soon after presenting our idea at the Living on the Edge conference in May 2022.
It was originally an informal network, but it is now working towards registering as an authorized organization for people who share awareness of the issues of aging in different cultures.
The name “Counterpoint” represents that blending of knowledge and experiences from diverse backgrounds creates something more remarkable.
The core members are people who have come to Japan from overseas and have contributed to Japanese society in various fields, such as education and culture, for many years.
To find solutions to members’ challenge
Now they are approaching old age and planning to spend their lives in Japan. Currently, around 180 people of 18 different nationalities with over a dozen different first languages from all over Japan have joined.
Although they have maintained their responsibilities as citizens of Japan, such as paying taxes and insurance premiums, the reality is that it is difficult for them to obtain information on medical, nursing care, welfare, and other services and to use these services.
Many rely on their Japanese partner for help, but worry about needing to care for them in the future or outliving them.
In addition, dementia and other medical conditions can also affect their communication in the Japanese language, which they have already mastered.
They are working with Japanese members to find solutions to these challenges to realize an inclusive society in which people can experience fulfilling lives.
Current activities include monthly meetings (both in person and online), networking with other organizations in Japan, information and exchange through the website, and exercising through walking and dancing events.
For a truly inclusive society in the developing internationalization
The internationalization of society will continue to develop in our daily lives. Japanese living in other countries might face the challenges that Counterpoint members are now facing.
A truly inclusive society is where “people can live as they would like to live” until the end of ourlives, regardless of their backgrounds, mental and physical conditions.
Each one of us should be concerned about the issue in our own right to help realize a truly inclusive society.
Message from Amanda, the friend of the late Venetia Stanley-Smith
The founding members of Counterpoint were friends of the late Venetia Stanley-Smith, a long-term resident of Japan and popular author and TV personality, who contracted a rare form of Alzheimer’s.
Our experiences while caring for Venetia in the final stages of her illness showed us how important and comforting it is for the sick to have care givers who speak their mother-tongue and share or understand their cultural background.
Amanda Gillis-Furutaka
The President of Counterpoint. Born in England, and after teaching English in Europe, South America, and China. She taught at a university in Kyoto for 33 years until 2025.
Written by Amanda Gills-Furutaka
From the bulletin July 2025 of the Alzheimer’s Association of JAPAN “Earth Family Part II”
編集委員会（スタッフ）／Staff 01
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