Pachinko, a popular game in Japan, is gaining attention for its potential benefits in preventing dementia, especially among the elderly population. The country is facing a crisis as the number of senior citizens continues to rise, leading to concerns about dementia among this demographic. Despite being a form of semi-legal gambling, the pachinko industry has been shrinking over the years. However, targeting seniors as a new market could help revitalize the industry.
Hiroto Kamei, a sales director of a pachinko-machine maker, Toyomaru Sangyo, acknowledges the decline in the industry and emphasizes the importance of adapting to the demands of the elderly. Pachinko games are known for their simplicity and ease of play, with players shooting small steel balls into an array of pins to trigger jackpots and win more balls.
In Japan, pachinko parlors operate under a loophole in the gambling laws. While the game itself does not dispense money directly, players can exchange accumulated balls for tokens, which can then be exchanged for cash. This two-step process allows pachinko parlors to operate legally without violating gambling laws. Kaoru Mori, the CEO of Japan’s Day Service Las Vegas, runs a casino-themed day care center for the elderly, offering games like pachinko, mahjong, and poker. Despite the resemblance to a casino, Mori assures that everything is legal and emphasizes that they do not use real money, focusing instead on providing joy to the elderly.
The use of pachinko machines among the elderly has sparked debate in Japan. While the government is concerned about gambling addiction, there is evidence suggesting that playing pachinko can help prevent dementia. This provides a compelling argument in favor of pachinko, especially as Japan grapples with an aging population. Professor Kikunoria Shinohara from Suwa Tokyo University of Science highlights the benefits of engaging in activities like pachinko, which can be more beneficial than traditional therapy. Studies have shown that pachinko players in their 70s exhibit higher cognitive abilities compared to non-players of the same age group.
Beyond cognitive benefits, playing pachinko has been linked to improved sleeping habits and increased levels of extroversion among introverted individuals. Some machines are even equipped with bike pedals, allowing players to exercise while sitting and playing. The overall spending at pachinko parlors has decreased in recent years, but the potential health benefits associated with playing pachinko are gaining recognition.
In conclusion, pachinko’s role in preventing dementia and promoting overall well-being among the elderly is becoming increasingly recognized in Japan. While the game may have faced challenges in recent years, targeting seniors as a new market could help revive the industry. As the country grapples with a growing elderly population, the potential benefits of pachinko in preventing dementia offer a compelling argument for its continued relevance in Japanese society.