In Japan, the number of elderly individuals aged 65 and over with no close relatives is expected to increase significantly by 2050, reaching over 10% of the elderly population. According to estimates by the Japan Research Institute, by 2050, there will be 4.48 million individuals without kin up to the third degree, raising concerns about who will act as their guarantors for hospitals and care homes.
With fewer people marrying in Japan, the number of elderly individuals without relatives within the third degree is projected to rise from 2.86 million in 2024. This trend is expected to impact around 11.5% of the elderly population by 2050, totaling 39 million individuals. The Civil Code in Japan places the responsibility on relatives within the third degree to support their aging family members.
As the population of elderly individuals without close kin increases, the government is taking steps to address the issue, such as drafting guidelines for firms providing private care services. By 2050, the number of elderly individuals aged 65 and over without children is estimated to reach 10.32 million, further highlighting the importance of providing support for this vulnerable demographic.
© KYODO