What does this mean for older Japanese citizens? While the number of nursing homes has
increased, it is still insufficient to serve all those who are on waiting lists. Employers find it hard to hire caregivers
since candidates can find easier and more highly paid work.
Japan is spending half its health budget on
older persons. . .and the once very prosperous nation has a huge financial deficit.
Now the government has introduced a new health insurance scheme with special
cards for those over 75 years old; however, elders don’t like to be singled
out; they call it the “hurry up and die” program.
Just under a third of Japanese 85 year olds have Alzheimer’s
or another dementia which matches the rate in the UK.
The Japanese dilemma now lies ahead for all major
world economies. A rapid growth in the oldest citizens is a success story for
humankind. However, it can also create a
heavy responsibility for families if governments have ignored the growing
financial and social obligations to their elder citizens.
In Japan, as in many parts of the world, the debate is now how the
obligation should be met.
What's happening in your country? Do you feel that your govenrment has programs and funds in place to extend appropriate care to you in your old age? Please send Global Action on Aging your ideas and comments.
Have a good week,
Susanne Paul for Global Action on Aging
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