Today's Close-Up

The struggles of everyday life are driving more and more people to use AI chatbots to fill the void in their hearts. Attracted by the sense of support and the constant availability, some have even 'married' AI characters, or recreated deceased partners to fill the feelings of loss. Meanwhile in the US, there have been cases where bereaved families have sued AI companies, claiming that the bots caused loved ones to take their own lives. We look into the way people use AI, along with some precautions it might be wise to take.

Guest: Satoh Ichiro (Professor, National Institute of Informatics)

Hospice-style housing is emerging as a new end-of-life housing option for people with terminal or incurable illnesses in Japan. These residences offer a level of comfort and care unavailable at nursing homes, and they are spreading rapidly at a time when hospital capacity is declining across the country. But they also present serious challenges. The quality of care varies dramatically by residence, and some operators have been known to overcharge for medical care. We talk to experts about the merits of hospice-style housing and what needs to be done to improve the system.

Guests: 
Inoue Yukiko (Professor, Japan College of Social Work)
Yamazaki Fumio (Honorary Director, Caretown Kodaira Clinic)

In January 2026, the Nara District Court delivered a life sentence to Yamagami Tetsuya who assassinated former Prime Minister Abe Shinzo. A focal point of the trial was how much consideration would be given to the upbringing of the defendant who'd been struggling due to his mother's adherence to the former Unification Church. In this program, NHK interviews children of Church followers with backgrounds similar to Yamagami's, who share their views on the trial. We also speak with someone who met with Yamagami for a total of ten hours, religious studies expert Sakurai Yoshihide, and hear what the defendant told him. 

Guest: Sakurai Yoshihide (Specially Appointed Professor, Hokkaido University)

Research has found that chewing ability is closely connected to healthy lifespan and brain stimulation. At the same time, data suggests there has been a decline in chewing strength across Japan, a trend that experts attribute to changes in the modern diet, among other factors. The result has been a greater prevalence of underdeveloped jaws in children, and increased frailty and health problems in older adults. We spoke with experts, who explained how consistent oral training and mindful eating can boost our focus and ensure a longer and healthier life.

Guest: Teruyama Yuko (Dentist and Doctor of Dental Science)