Medical Technology for the Elderly in Japan

Abstract

Although a relative latecomer in the industrialization process, Japan has managed to catch up with the more advanced nations and become a major competitor in the international marketplace for goods and services. As a result of their excellent economic performance and rapid technological development, the Japanese people enjoy a level of general well-being that is among the highest in the world. This is especially true with respect to health status. In terms of most commonly accepted indicators, Japan compares quite favorably with other industrial nations. Indeed, the life expectancy for males of 74.20 years and that for females of 79.78 years in 1984 were the highest in the world.