The Kitakyushu Model paves the way for the future of nursing care: On-site innovations supported by assistive technologies

Abstract

Kitakyushu City has a special way of improving nursing care called the Kitakyushu Model. The model has three stages. First, it helps people to visualize their work. Next, it uses technology to help, like information and communication technologies (ICT) and nursing care robots. Finally, it organizes business operations. Since April 2021, the Kitakyushu City Nursing Care Robot Introduction Support and Promotion Center has been using this model. Aso Educational Services Co., Ltd. runs the center. This center has helped special nursing homes in the city by improving work efficiency. For example, it has introduced equipment to help with transfers, which reduces the work load for nursing care staff. It has also introduced equipment to monitor patients at night, which reduces the need for staff to patrol the floor at night. In April 2025, the center was integrated with the Kitakyushu City Nursing Care Training and Promotion Center, with Aso Educational Services continuing to provide escort support. The use of nursing care technology has allowed for more efficient use of staff, such as having elderly nursing staff assist with transfers. These changes have gotten a lot of attention in Japan and other countries. Mr. Tarumoto, the former director of the Kitakyushu City Nursing Care Robot Introduction Support and Promotion Center, will give a lecture on these initiatives.