• I investigate on the economics of aging, the optimal social welfare policy, low fertility and so on not based on the historical and systematic approach but based on the neo-classical economic theory. I also use econometric method and statistical approach. I often estimate the future projections of the population, public finance, magnitude of private markets, the results of public policies.
• I also research on the comparative studies on East Asia (Japan, China, Korea, Taiwan) and European (especially Scandinavian countries). I provide statistic data and information on the economic and political systems on the aging in Japan.

The future estimation on the financial status , market caused by low fertility and aging. The effective management of the medical institutions, social welfare systems, gender equality societies for the central and local government, research institutions, public enterprises, and financial Institutions.

To prevent loneliness and social isolation in middle-aged and older adults, this study aims to introduce the community-based initiative “Community Shed,” which originated in Australia, into Japan and to scientifically examine its effects. As the number of older adults living alone increases and more people lose a sense of purpose in life, Community Sheds are attracting attention as places that foster social connections and promote the formation of ikigai (a sense of meaning in life). This study is grounded in the theory of the “Social Cure,” which posits that group membership enhances health and well-being.

Conventional interventions have been effective in addressing objective indicators of social isolation but have shown only limited impact in alleviating subjective feelings of loneliness, and they have insufficiently addressed the social structures that generate isolation. In Japan in particular, the isolation of older men after retirement has become a serious issue, with few opportunities available for creating new purposes in life or for seeking consultation. Community Sheds aim not merely to provide opportunities for social interaction but to focus on the quality of social connections and the construction of social identity (a sense of belonging). They are designed to offer a space for autonomous and self-directed activities through which participants can cultivate both a sense of purpose and a sense of belonging.

• In collaboration with the Japan Community Shed Association and JST-RISTEX, pilot Community Sheds have been established in Japan, including “Yoroya” in Mizukami Village, Kumamoto Prefecture, and “Pokke Kotan” in Nishi Ward, Sapporo City, where their effectiveness is being evaluated. The results so far indicate reductions in feelings of loneliness, improvements in perceived physical health and cognitive function, and an expansion of group memberships and supportive relationships. Building on these findings, this project aims to develop a sustainable, Japan-specific system to prevent unwanted isolation and loneliness.

In collaboration with the Japan Community Shed Association and JST-RISTEX, we are promoting the establishment and evaluation of pilot Community Sheds in Japan, such as “Yoroya” in Mizukami Village, Kumamoto Prefecture, and “Pokke Kotan” in Nishi Ward, Sapporo City. These initiatives have demonstrated positive outcomes, including reductions in participants’ feelings of loneliness, improvements in perceived physical health and cognitive function, and an expansion of group memberships and supportive relationships. Building on these achievements, we aim to develop a sustainable, Japan-specific system to prevent unwanted isolation and loneliness.