How to Choose Elderly Care Facilities in Japan｜Types and Key Points You Should Know

Finding the right facility for an elderly family member is one of the most important decisions you can make. However, with so many types of facilities available, it can be overwhelming to know where to start.

In this article, we will introduce the main types of elderly care facilities in Japan and explain the key points to consider when choosing the right one.

Types of Elderly Care Facilities (10 Types)

Special Nursing Homes for the Elderly (Tokuyo)

• Publicly operated, with relatively low costs
• For those certified as Care Level 3 or higher
• Long-term stay possible, but waiting lists are often long

Geriatric Health Services Facilities (Roken)

• Intermediate facilities designed for rehabilitation and returning home
• Focus on medical care and rehabilitation
• Usually for short- to medium-term stays, not permanent residence

Medical Care Facilities for the Elderly (Kaigo Iryoin)

• Combine both medical and nursing care
• Suitable for elderly people who need long-term medical treatment

Serviced Senior Housing (Sakoju)

• Barrier-free rental apartments
• Includes safety checks and lifestyle consultation services
• Mainly for relatively independent seniors

Paid Nursing Homes (Yuryo Rojin Home)

• Operated by private companies
• Three main types: nursing care, housing-based, and healthcare-based
• Wide variation in services and fees

Senior Condominiums

• Condominium-style housing for independent seniors
• Usually includes concierge service, dining options, and security
• Designed for active seniors who wish to maintain independence

Group Homes (for Dementia Care)

• Small-scale, family-like shared housing for people with dementia
• Residents live together in a homely atmosphere with staff support
• Requires certification of Support Level 2 or Care Level 1+ and a dementia diagnosis

Care Houses (Keihi Rojin Home)

• • For relatively independent seniors
  • Provides meals and daily living support
  • Public subsidies help keep costs affordable
  • Nursing care services are outsourced if needed

Private Senior Housing with Services

• Operated by private companies
• Similar to Sakoju, but services may vary widely
• Options range from light support to extensive care

Short-Stay Facilities (Respite Care)

• Temporary stays of a few days to several weeks
• Often attached to other facilities such as Tokuyo, Roken, or medical care facilities
• Provides relief for family caregivers during vacations, business trips, or illness
• Also used for rehabilitation support before returning home

 

 

There are so many.

Which one should I choose?

🌱Don’t worry. I’ll show you the key points.

Key Points When Choosing an Elderly Care Facility

1. Understand the resident’s condition
   • Independent, support-required, or nursing-care-required
   • Presence of dementia
   • Need for medical treatment
2. Check the costs
   • Public facilities are affordable but often have long waiting lists
   • Private facilities offer wider choices, but costs vary greatly
3. Consider location and access
   • Is it close enough for family visits?
   • Easy access to hospitals and clinics?
4. Visit and experience the facility
   • Check the atmosphere, cleanliness, and staff interactions
   • Many facilities offer trial stays or guided tours

Summary

Elderly care facilities in Japan range from public to private, support-based to medical-oriented, and everything in between.

• Group homes specialize in dementia care
• Care houses support independent living with affordable services
• Short-stay facilities are often attached to other care institutions and provide temporary relief

When choosing a facility, always consider the resident’s health condition, budget, and location. Most importantly, compare multiple options and visit in person to make the best choice.

Meow, I see!

・参考
みんなの介護　老人ホームの種類