Japan: feeling the strains of an aging population
Oshima, S.
Science 273(5271): 44-45
1996
ISSN/ISBN: 0036-8075 PMID: 8658191 Document Number: 463327
Part of a special section on aging. For many researchers and policymakers trying to ascertain how societies will take care of the ever-increasing numbers of the old and very old in their midst, Japan has seemed to provide a glimpse of a future that works, but all is not as it seems. Problems of growing old in Japan are eased by a tradition of children taking care of their parents, as well as highly evolved pension and health care systems. Like most countries, however, the demand for care for the elderly in Japan is far outstripping its availability. Furthermore, family support structures are breaking down under the strain of wider demographic trends, and pension and health care systems are already under financial stress. Government efforts to rectify the situation are described.