Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the challenges and realities of the aging care system in Japan, highlighting the need for reform and adaptation in response to the increasing elderly population, and draws parallels with China's rapidly aging society [3][4][6][7]. Group 1: Aging Population Statistics - Japan's elderly population (65 years and older) is projected to reach 36.24 million by 2024, accounting for 29.3% of the total population, with some regions like Toyama exceeding 30% [6]. - In contrast, China's elderly population has surpassed 210 million, making up 15.4% of its total population, with a faster aging rate expected in the coming years [7]. Group 2: Current State of Elderly Care - The Japanese elderly care system is facing significant challenges, including insufficient national budget, severe shortage of caregivers, and lagging technological advancements [4]. - The article emphasizes that while some high-quality care institutions exist in China, the overall service quality is still lacking compared to ideal standards [7]. Group 3: Caregiving System and Insurance - Japan's caregiving model is built on a nationwide long-term care insurance system, which mandates contributions from residents starting at age 40, ensuring access to care services based on assessed needs [11]. - The assessment process for care services involves a detailed evaluation of the elderly's living conditions and health status, which can lead to increased care levels if deemed necessary [12]. Group 4: Financial Aspects of Care - The cost of care services in Japan is partially covered by the long-term care insurance, with elderly individuals typically responsible for 10% to 30% of the costs [13]. - The financial burden on elderly individuals can lead to situations of "financial ruin" if they cannot afford the necessary care services, especially when additional care is required [13]. Group 5: Workforce Challenges - Japan is experiencing a severe shortage of caregivers, with a projected demand of 2.43 million caregivers by 2025, while the current supply is only 2.126 million [27][28]. - In China, the situation is even more dire, with only 500,000 caregivers available against a shortfall of 5.5 million, highlighting the urgent need for workforce development in the sector [29]. Group 6: Innovative Care Models - The article discusses innovative community-based care models in Japan, such as intergenerational living arrangements that foster connections between the elderly and younger generations [35]. - These models emphasize the importance of social connections and community support in enhancing the quality of life for the elderly [36].

本文来自微信公众号：新周刊 （ID：new-weekly），作者：陈茁，编辑：桃子酱，题图来自：AI生成 "没想到，日本的养老院竟这么落后。" 这是2013年川口彰俊初入养老行业时的第一印象。在那之前，他在一家制造业日企的厦门分公司上班，习惯了机械化、IT化的工作环境。如果不是应舅舅 的邀请回到日本，在富山县帮忙管理养老院，川口彰俊恐怕不会意识到，外界眼中堪称典范的日本养老模式，远没有想象中完美。 此后10年，川口彰俊以"社会福祉法人喜寿会"（以下简称"喜寿会"）常务理事兼特别养护养老院院长的身份，推动了养老院的"3A介护改革"（安全、安 心、安逸），见证了日本这个"超高龄社会"所面临的现实挑战——看似光鲜的养老体系之下，国家预算不足、护工严重短缺、科技化水平滞后等深层危机 正投下巨大阴影。 这些切身体验和深刻观察，最终被川口彰俊写进《高龄海啸》一书里。他在书中详细梳理了日本养老体系的发展历史、繁杂的介护保险制度，以及自己作 为养老院院长的一线经验。 日本是全球老龄化程度最高的国家，2024年，65岁及以上的老年人口达到3624.3万人，占总人口的29.3%。在川口彰俊生活的富山县，高龄化率超过 30%。偶尔 ...