【介護入門①】いつかは訪れる親の介護に今から備えておこう！

Summary

This video delves into the complexities of caregiving, emphasizing the importance of early preparation and understanding the caregiving system. It addresses the societal perceptions of caregiving roles, discussing how it's not just a concern for the elderly but a reality that everyone might face. The script highlights the increase in senior audience engagement on platforms like YouTube, suggesting a growing interest in caregiving content. It provides a comprehensive guide on navigating the caregiving process, from understanding insurance systems and legal procedures to choosing between home care and facilities. Furthermore, it stresses the significance of financial planning, leveraging government and community support, and maintaining one's well-being while caregiving. The narrative underscores the collective effort required in caregiving, urging viewers to educate themselves and use available resources effectively.

Takeaways

• 😲 The script provides an overview of the long-term elder care system and process in Japan.
• 😊 It emphasizes using public support systems rather than trying to shoulder all care alone.
• 💡 Knowing basics like the levels of required care, insurance system, and regional comprehensive support centers is critical.
• 📝 Keeping records of behavioral changes is helpful for accurate assessment.
• 💰 Financial planning based on projected lifespan is recommended.
• 😥 Completely quitting work for caregiving often backfires long-term financially.
• 🤝 Utilizing legislation around care leave from work and housing renovation funding.
• 🗣️ Having open conversations about care plans with family early on.
• 🚸 Using local comprehensive support centers as a free consultation resource.
• 🙏 Not taking on the full burden alone - it is a team effort.

Q & A

What is the care insurance system in Japan?

The care insurance system in Japan provides financial support and services for elderly care, funded through insurance premiums. Everyone over 65 gets a care insurance card which allows them to access benefits.

How is the level of care need determined?

Doctors assess and classify the level of care from Support Level 1 to Care Level 5. Higher levels indicate more care needed based on ability to eat, use the toilet etc. An investigator visits to assess daily functioning.

What is the role of Care Managers?

Care Managers create personalized care plans based on assessments. They arrange suitable services and monitor/adjust plans. Good ones communicate with family and respect patient wishes.

What is the annual care budget based on?

The advice is to budget care costs assuming the parent will live until 100. This prevents prematurely spending all savings on expensive services.

Why get help from the local community care center?

The local community care center provides free consultations on all elder care concerns and introduces caregiver services tailored to need and budget.

What legal protections exist for working caregivers?

Laws allow up to 93 days of caregiver leave without losing jobs. Workplace caregiving allowances are also available.

What housing assistance programs exist?

Home modification costs like adding handrails are subsidized if approved. Special discounted elder homes exist for low income patients.

Why is it advised not to shoulder everything alone?

Attempting to provide all care personally leads to mental, physical and financial burnout. Using family, community and legal resources is essential.

What does level of care imply about dementia?

Higher care levels indicate cognitive impairment like dementia is interfering with independent functioning.

How to approach difficult money conversations with parents?

Advice includes starting talks indirectly (e.g. planning for future) over time and identifying who the parent interacts best with.