Akihiro Hirashiki

National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology

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About

Dr. Akihiro Hirashiki is a pioneering researcher in cardiovascular rehabilitation, with a specific focus on improving functional outcomes for older adults with cardiovascular disease (CVD). His work centers on integrating innovative robotic technology into cardiac rehabilitation programs to enhance patient mobility and safety. Dr. Hirashiki’s major contributions include demonstrating the clinical efficacy of the Balance Exercise Assist Robot (BEAR) in two landmark studies. His 2022 prospective study, cited 13 times, provided preliminary evidence that robot-assisted balance training significantly improves postural stability in older CVD patients. He further validated these findings in a 2024 randomized controlled trial, which compared BEAR-based video game training to conventional therapy, establishing a new paradigm for engaging, technology-driven rehabilitation. By merging robotics with geriatric cardiology, Dr. Hirashiki has opened a novel avenue for reducing fall risk and enhancing quality of life in a vulnerable population. His work is notable for its translational impact, directly influencing how cardiac rehabilitation is delivered to aging patients, and positions him as a key figure in the emerging field of robotic-assisted cardiovascular care.