1.2.1X DTM contrasting countries (Japan)

Question 1

Japan’s ageing population

Answer 1

Since 1945, the age structure of Japan’s population has greatly changed, largely due to a decrease in both birth and death rates. Population ageing more rapidly than other countries

Number of elderly people living alone in Japan increased from 0.8 million in 1975 to 2.5 million in 2000.

Since 1975, the percentage of young people has gradually declined. By 2015, they accounted for only 13% of the population
26% of Japanese population aged over 65 years

Question 2

Economic causes of Japan’s ageing population

Answer 2

Being pregnant is expensive, not covered by health insurance.

After birth, healthcare is only provided for free for infants up to age of 3 (5 in some areas)

The huge costs of schooling and education
Child benefit paid by the government is low and is not enough

Question 3

Social causes of Japan’s ageing population

Answer 3

Japanese women are not having enough children

Many Japanese choose to marry at a later age, which may mean that they have children later or not at all

Many women decide not to get married and choose to pursue a career

In Japanese culture it is the norm for the mothers to bring up children, and the lack of childcare facilities means that they have to leave their work, and as such it may be too much to have a family.

Question 4

Consequences of Japan’s ageing population

Answer 4

Huge burden created on pension funds and social welfare programmes, especially health care. Problems include:
* Inadequate nursing facilities
* Depletion of labour force
* Deterioration of the economy
* Falling demand for schools and teachers
* An increase in the burden on the working population to serve the independent population