A revision in the nursing-care insurance law, which passed the Diet in late June, will go into effect in April 2006, representing a significant turn in the direction of the government's approach since the insurance system was introduced in fiscal 2000.
The new approach will emphasize care for the elderly (people at least 65 years old) that helps prevent their condition from deteriorating to the extent that they require intensive and expensive care under the system.
The government's thinking is understandable in view of the steady rise in spending. But some current beneficiaries and their families may feel uneasy about proposed changes in services they are now receiving, such as assistance in meal preparation and house-cleaning. Explanations must ease their concerns and help them adjust to the new approach. Individual cases may demand flexible judgment.