Utilizing CCRC Concept for Long-term Care Policy of Japan

Japan\u27s demographic profile is rapidly changing due to its low birth rate and its unsurpassed longevity. On the other hand, the family\u27s caring capacity for the elderly is weakening because of a changing of household structure, a change of consciousness for supporting parents, and an increase of working women. In response to these problems, the Ministry of Health and Welfare is constructing a new nursing care system which focuses on promoting home health care through the New Gold Plan and the establishment of a public nursing care insurance system. In Northern Europe and the U. S., senior housing with home health care services is playing a significant role as an efficient and effective long-term care option for the elderly. In the U.S., CCRCs (Continuing Care Retirement Communities) has been evaluated as a new senior housing program. In Japan, the preparation of senior housing has been far behind the need and more senior housing is needed in order to deliver quality of care and control health care costs. CCRCs should be a significant model in preparing senior housing programs which will be key for home health care for the elderly in the future of Japan