Humans have always dreamed of living longer and healthier lives. Now, a surge of investment in anti-aging research is accelerating the quest to make it a reality. Researchers are focused on three principal areas of investigation – eliminating old cells, identifying substances that delay aging, and rejuvenating old cells. The results suggest exciting breakthroughs could be just around the corner. But as one expert explains, the new approaches are not without risk. In Japan, where people enjoy long lifespans, a study of centenarians is also shedding light on the biological, lifestyle and social factors that may be crucial to enjoying happier and more fulfilling lives in old age. And even beyond that stage, when care becomes indispensable, technology is ensuring people can still get the most out of the years they have left. We take a look at the latest efforts to help humans enjoy longer and healthier lives. 

Guests: 
Nakanishi Makoto (Professor, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo) 
Arai Yasumichi (Professor / Director, Center for Supercentenarian Medical Research, Keio University School of Medicine)

On New Year's Day, Japan's Noto Peninsula experienced a massive earthquake that destroyed communities and livelihoods. Then in September, another disaster struck. This time, a sudden, violent downpour engulfed neighborhoods, washing away homes, flooding temporary housing for quake survivors, and triggering deadly mudslides that cut off communities from outside help. The tragedy has raised questions about the forecasting abilities of the Meteorological Agency, which didn't see the devastating rain coming, and the risk communication of local authorities, who built the temporary housing on flood-prone land. NHK visited the Noto region to gauge the extent of the damage, and see how residents are coping with this latest setback.

Guest:
Ubaura Michio (Professor, International Research Institute of Disaster Science, Tohoku University)