Application of Digital Technology in Palliative Care in Japan

To provide a comprehensive overview of the use of digital technology in palliative care, focusing on its potential and challenges.

A narrative review of recent literature and clinical applications in Japan was conducted by examining smartphone applications, extended reality (XR), electronic patient-reported outcomes (ePRO), non-wearable sensors, and artificial intelligence.

Smartphone applications provide continuous psychological support and alleviate loneliness. XR (mainly virtual reality) offers distraction therapy for symptom relief and fulfills patients' "last wishes." ePRO systems and non-wearable bed sensors enable proactive care through real-time symptom and agitation monitoring. AI assists in predicting non-visible symptoms and formulating personalized care plans. Despite these benefits, challenges such as the digital divide, ethical and legal concerns, and the need for high-quality evidence remain.

Digital technologies can significantly enhance non-pharmacological interventions in palliative care. Realizing "personalized digital palliative care" requires the integration of these tools according to individual patient needs, along with the resolution of ethical and technical issues.