Elderly care is critical to Japanese society. A rapidly ageing
population, low growth rates and economic recession
have cast doubt on the Japanese Government’s ability to
care for its citizens. Shortages in carers will place strain on
health care in Japan, particularly with respect to the
elderly. The delivery of elderly health care, particularly in
rural areas, in Japan, is not without difficulties. Longstanding
traditions, eating habits and lifestyle patterns
make it difficult for nurses to change the habits of local
Japanese. Nurses have to adapt to local customs and culture
to ensure that changes are made by locals. This review has
found that socioculturally sensitive approaches are needed
to deliver appropriate care. The difficulties confronted in
Japan are by no means unique. Greater numbers of elderly
living on their own in remote, often inaccessible areas
appears to be, to a varying degree, a global problem. The
encouragement of family care and the recognition of the
benefits of community health professionals are important.
Health systems need to be responsive and ensure that
policies reduces barriers to elderly access. For Japanese
community nursing, a relationship of dialogue, trust and
cultural sensitivity is beginning to be acknowledged as a
recipe for improved health of patients. More research into
nurse-led interventions at community level is necessary to
ensure universal access and improved health outcomes for
the rural elderly.