Old-age security in Japan – multidirectional actions

https://doi.org/10.31971/2299-2332.2023.18.6

Abstract

Japan has long been struggling with the negative effects of demographic processes, mainly ageing. It is the oldest country in the world in terms of the percentage of persons over 65 years of age (with a record high of 29.1% in 2023). Japan has entered the “hyper-aged society” phase. Due to the specific age structure of Japanese population, special attention in this country is paid to social security, including the old-age pension system, long-term care, and health policy. The government pursues a long-term and comprehensive policy in these areas. Japan’s experience highlights importance of predicting the effects of demographic phenomena, mainly population ageing and low generational replacement ratio, as well as preparing to mitigate negative effects of these processes.