Highlights: ? Government policy was beneficial for several fields, remaining unexploited in others. ? Very few of the silver innovations were to experience a commercial success. ? 12 main areas in which silver innovations should be facilitated are proposed. ? Strategic directions under which specific measures should be formulated are proposed.Abstract: Objective: The paper aims to explore effective measures and strategies for the promotion of ICT-enabled innovations for the elderly and people with special needs.Methods: The paper begins by reviewing current government initiatives in the field of e-health and accessibility that are addressing challenges faced by Japan’s rapidly ageing society. It then evaluates the results of Japanese government efforts in the promotion of ICT solut….