About 18 months have passed since the introduction of long-term care insurance based on the principle of the "socialization of care." From October, elderly people aged 65 and over have been paying the full insurance premium. This is an important period for solidifying the system. The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare has hailed the system's "smooth progress, almost without hitch." On average nationwide, however, only about 40 percent of usable funds are actually being used. This means that efforts must be made to improve the system, including a thorough review of the quality and use of services.

Problems to be tackled include the development and diffusion of "welfare equipment" that can be obtained through care insurance, such as spoons designed for deformed hands and mattresses that prevent bedsores. The expression "welfare equipment" refers to the "helping hand" that enables elderly and disabled people to lead independent lives. It also must be designed to reduce the burden on care providers.

Scandinavian countries are known for their generous distribution of welfare equipment designed to make the lives of the elderly more pleasant. In addition to having an abundant variety of equipment, suppliers have a meticulous attitude. Decentralization has made deep inroads in those countries, and local governments are obliged to set up special centers.