Quote:
Originally Posted by RobinMask
I have to ask - does Japan have any care for its elderly? Are care homes affordable, are the pensions good? If people resort to shoplifting - the same way some people here resort to not using heating in order to get by in costs - then does it imply not enough is being done? Or is it a cultural thing, like a way or saving face by not asking for help?
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The Japanese health care system doesn`t really create issues with affording medical care and medications. Pensions are... Well... Not wonderful, but enough to get by.
Care homes are not really all that common, but there are countless low-cost or free (either volunteer or paid for by social services) in-home care services provided. There are also countless programs providing small employment opportunities to people past retirement - as much for the income as for the mental and physical stimulation it provides. For those who do require more intensive care, there are hospitals dedicated almost entirely to caring for the elderly.
Almost every area has a support and health center for the elderly, and there are always tons of activities and services being advertised... But you can only offer the services and not force them on people. If someone does not apply for services, they will not get them.
I have no doubt there are people out there who have no family and who honestly cannot get by without stealing food, etc... But there are services they could apply for.