Apple, IBM and Japan Post Group on Thursday announced a joint initiative that will provide millions of Japan’s elderly population with iPads. This initiative is the latest step in the existing partnership between Apple and IBM that was set up last year. The iPads will come pre-loaded with messaging apps like iMessage and Facetime so that users can effectively communicate with family and friends. However, they also come loaded with healthcare related apps, which will remind the senior person to take their medicine or provide them access to community support services.

“We are joining with two of the world’s most respected leaders in technology to bring our elderly generation into the connected world, expand our businesses by deepening relationships, and discover new ways to strengthen the fabric of our society and economy,” said Taizo Nishimuro, CEO of Japan Post Group.

This initiative is incredibly important, especially in Japan that has a rapidly aging population with 25 percent of the population aged 65 or older, with the number due to grow to 40 percent over the next 40 years. It will assist in providing a quarter of Japan’s population with the necessary resources to remain connected, keep their minds active and assist them medically.

“This initiative has potential for global impact, as many countries face the challenge of supporting an aging population, and we are honored to be involved in supporting Japan’s senior citizens and helping enrich their lives,” said Tim Cook, Apple’s CEO. “iPad is incredibly intuitive, easy to use and has accessibility features built in, making it a perfect device for any generation to be connected and engaged.”

After piloting the iPad service, Japan Post Group will start distribution with the aim of reaching between four million and five million customers by 2020. The iPad and software apps will be an add-on to Japan Post Group’s existing operation, the Watch Over service. For a nominal monthly fee, this national service has mail carriers checking in on elderly customers and providing assurances to the family members of the elderly person.

An increase in elderly population is not a problem unique to Japan. The global elderly population is set to rise from 11.7 percent to over 21 percent by 2050. Japan will be the testing ground to see whether this initiative will work, with the future possibility of rolling it out to other countries around the world.

Photo credit: Meg Stewart | Flickr