This year's Respect for the Aged Day, last Monday, found a lot more aged to respect than ever before. According to Health, Labor and Welfare Ministry statistics, over 36,000 people in Japan are now over 100 years old. Many others are close behind. Over 28 million people were aged 65 and over, one-quarter of all Japanese women and one-fifth of all men. That adds up to a lot of silver seats and discount movie tickets!

While most elderly people appreciate respect, they would appreciate a serious reshaping of policies and a reconsideration of attitudes even more. The government needs to start planning now for a very different future society that will need more than just added silver seats on trains. A sense of reality demands a different vision of care and ways to lead active lives.

Of course, health becomes a central concern for those over 65, yet along with medical care, exercise and recreation facilities need to be expanded. Health also includes mental health. According to figures released this summer, suicide by over-60s jumped to 12,000 cases, comprising over one-third of all suicides in 2007. The depression that leads to suicide is one of the most preventable of conditions for the elderly and easy access to expanded facilities is urgent.