Aeon Retail will open "Aeon Smile Hamamatsu Aoi," a day service specializing in preventive care and rehabilitation, on Wednesday, July 1. This marks the first Aeon Smile location in Shizuoka Prefecture and the 26th store nationwide. ◆ Day Service Business Operated by Aeon Retail Aeon Smile is a day service business focused on preventive care and rehabilitation, operated by Aeon Retail. Leveraging the strengths of commercial facilities, specialized professionals such as physical therapists and occupational therapists are involved in services linked to daily life, such as "shopping rehabilitation" and "health events," to provide specialized preventive care and rehabilitation support. ◆ "Shopping Rehabilitation" and "Health Events" Utilizing the Strengths of Commercial Facilities In stores certified by local governments, they serve as "community gathering places" where people can gather and connect through "shopping rehabilitation," where "shopping" to choose products while walking around the store is part of rehabilitation, and "health events" that foster interaction with local residents. Users have commented that these activities provide an opportunity to go out, leading to a change of pace and social connection. ◆ Background of Opening in Hamamatsu City, Shizuoka Prefecture Hamamatsu City is the largest city in the prefecture in terms of population, with a mix of urban and mountainous areas. At the same time, the population aged 65 and over is on the rise, continuing to be the largest in the prefecture. Furthermore, due to a high dependence on automobiles and the fact that approximately 50% of those certified as needing long-term care or support are in the mild category, early preventive care and prevention of worsening conditions are important. ◆ The Vision of Aeon Smile With the aim of "supporting the bright smiles of our local community through attentive, high-quality rehabilitation day services," we are proceeding with store openings that are tailored to local c