The Government's Intentions

The first special collection of premiums for the Late-Stage Elderly Healthcare System, which deducts premiums from pensions, began on April 15th. It has been met with extremely poor reception, for countless reasons. The premium increases, the decline in medical care, the confusion stemming from its launch without adequate public awareness, and the unprecedented division of the medical system based on age—the list is endless. What is crucial here is the government's intention. In short, the rapidly advancing aging population and declining birthrate will inevitably lead to increased medical costs, so this system was created to curb the government's social security expenses. This is the true motive.

The "Division of Family Consciousness" Cannot Be Ignored

Consider this: Previously, the head of a household would group elderly parents, wives, and children as dependents and pay health insurance premiums for them. Now, those aged 75 and over are designated as late-stage elderly, separated from their families, and issued their own insurance cards. It has become a medical system that says, 'Grandpa and Grandma are no longer our dependents.'
This should clearly be understood as the collapse of family consciousness and unity itself. While government spending spans public works, defense, education, and more, it is no exaggeration to say that the easiest target—the vulnerable elderly—was chosen.

The Public Is Not Foolish

Enhancing social welfare is a primary concern for governments worldwide. The Japanese government has deliberately pushed for a medical system based on age differences. It is certain to face strong opposition from the public. Indeed, the current Fukuda administration is facing increasing public scrutiny. Support ratings in opinion polls by major media companies have consistently fallen below 30%, pushing it into a crisis.

This demonstrates that the public is not foolish. Sooner or later, the Late-Stage Elderly Healthcare System will be significantly revised or abolished. We must carefully assess the reality and ensure our voices are reflected in politics.