To All Occupational Therapists Worldwide!
Japan Association for Social Occupational Therapists (JASOT)
Statement of Purpose
— Founding Directors and Organizers
As Japan entered the 21st century, it became a super-aged society. However, the extended lifespan of its citizens has not automatically led to enriched later years or a lifestyle that allows for the full enjoyment of life. Many individuals struggle to sustain a sense of well-being, as modern society increasingly reveals systemic dysfunctions and misalignments that paradoxically seem to widen the gap between longevity and well-being.
Moreover, meaningless wars, conflicts across the globe, and large-scale natural disasters triggered by climate change exacerbate the situation. These issues, combined with declining birthrates, rising poverty, and increasing crime rates, make it challenging to envision a bright future for our communities. In this chaotic societal backdrop, what is most urgently needed is not merely economic growth or financial affluence but rather the richness of spirit that was lost during Japan’s period of rapid economic growth. It is essential to foster well-being through a balanced and secure lifestyle environment.
Advancements in medicine have led to a growing number of individuals living with injuries, illnesses, or disabilities. Simultaneously, the rapid increase in older adults with dementia highlights the urgent need to realize a universal society where diversity is recognized and embraced.
The core of occupational therapy lies in “occupation” (daily life activities). Its theories, extensive past practices, and knowledge—along with various techniques and tools—show us that human society has been built and sustained by human thought and purposeful activities. Occupational therapy has demonstrated the potential for better systems in human society and the power of occupational engagement in achieving them. By broadly disseminating and sharing these benefits with the general public, we aim to build a brighter society where everyone can nurture hope and progress toward a positive future.
With this vision, we have decided to establish the Japan Association for Social Occupational Therapists in November 2024 as an organization dedicated to supporting everyone in actively pursuing well-being.
Born to illuminate society with dreams and hope, JASOT strives for a universal society where everyone can live with peace of mind. To realize this goal, mutual aid, peer support systems, and efforts toward self-reliance are essential. Here, self-reliance entails recognizing the realities of one’s circumstances—including disabilities caused by age or physical, intellectual, cognitive, psychological, or other factors—and courageously moving forward in life despite these challenges. Social occupational therapists will support individuals in maximizing the effectiveness of self-reliance and integrating it into their daily lives.
Many societal problems, such as poverty, violence, crime, suicide, and mental health issues, often stem from feelings of resignation due to physical, intellectual, cognitive, or psychological challenges. Social occupational therapists go beyond merely providing one-sided assistance. They offer support through a rehabilitation perspective, focusing on education, adaptive environments, and assistive devices. Collaboration with other professionals and the utilization of societal resources are also integral to their approach.
Social occupational therapists play a vital role in building and improving social networks in healthcare, welfare, and comprehensive care within communities. Their work spans diverse settings, including hospitals, clinics, welfare facilities, and community-based care practices.
Furthermore, the scope of social occupational therapy extends beyond Japan, promoting international exchanges and collaboration with related organizations and academic societies worldwide.
We invite all occupational therapists interested in contributing to society through this new professional perspective to join us. The Japan Association for Social Occupational Therapists seeks to shift the stage of occupational therapy from clinical settings to society at large, working toward the well-being of all citizens.
November 2024
Nobuo Ohshima
Writer and Representative