Maintaining Physical Functioning of Frail Older People

摘要

A recent survey indicates the life expectancy of the average Japanese is 76 years for men and 83 for women. These figures are the highest in the world. In addition to this long life expectancy, the low birthrate is leading to an increasingly aged population in Japan. Estimates show 27% of the Japanese people will be 65 years of age or over in the year 2025. Therefore, it is essential for the Japanese government to prepare for the increased demands on the medical and long-term care insurance systems. In 1997, a long-term care insurance policy system was adopted and will become effective in the year 2000. Nevertheless, it is important to help frail older people maintain good physical and psychological condition. This will enable them to independently carry on activities of daily living (ADL) for the remainder of their lives.