Dual community-based care innovations in a super-aged population: The role of Small-scale Multifunctional In-home Care and Nursing Small-scale Multifunctional In-home Care in Japan.

Abstract

With the accelerating trend of population aging, Japan has become the first country to enter a "super-aged society", where the proportion of people age 65 and over exceeds 21%, making it a global model in addressing aging-related challenges. In response to the various social and healthcare issues arising from this demographic shift, the Japanese Government has implemented a series of policy measures. Among them, "Small-scale Multifunctional In-home Care (Shotaki)" and "Nursing Small-scale Multifunctional In-home Care (Kantaki)" have emerged as key components of the community-based care system. This paper explores the common challenges faced in super-aged populations and provides a comparative analysis of the functions, current status, existing issues, and future prospects of "Shotaki" and "Kantaki". By examining these two service models, the study aims to offer policy recommendations and practical insights to build a sustainable elderly care system.