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The evolution of home modification programs in Japan

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Abstract

Home modifications (HMs) are an effective strategy to improve older people’s quality of life. In this paper, the authors analyze the evolution of home modification support programs for the community-dwelling frail elderly in Japan from an historical perspective. First, Japan-specific issues that relate to home modifications are explained. Next, the early history of local home modification programs and its operation are discussed. Third, the authors analyze the context of the inclusion of home modification program as a part of the newly implemented National Long Term Care Insurance System (LTCIS). Finally, lessons learned from the history of Japanese home modification programs and future considerations are presented.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. 7-11-27-202 Arima, Miyamae-Ku, Postal code 216-0003, Kawasaki City, Japan

    Kuniko Makigami M.D., M.S.G. (Research Fellow, a recent graduate, a medical doctor in Japan)

  2. Tokyo Women’s Medical University, Tokyo, Japan

    Kuniko Makigami M.D., M.S.G. (Research Fellow, a recent graduate, a medical doctor in Japan)

  3. University of Southern California School of Gerontology, USA

    Kuniko Makigami M.D., M.S.G. (Research Fellow, a recent graduate, a medical doctor in Japan)

Authors
  1. Kuniko Makigami M.D., M.S.G.
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  2. Jon Pynoos Ph.D.
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to Kuniko Makigami M.D., M.S.G..

Additional information

She is Japan’s first public health officer assigned to a community welfare office and interested in various age-related issues, such as housing, infection control at home care settings, and legal protections for demented people.

is the UPS Foundation Professor of Gerontology, Public Policy and Urban Planning at the Andrus Gerontology Center of the University of Southern California as well as Director of the National Resource Center on Supportive Housing and Home Modification. He is a recognized national and international expert on housing and aging in place. He has written and edited five books on housing and the elderly including Housing the Aged: Design Directives and Policy Considerations and Housing Frail Elders: International Policies, Perspectives and Prospects.

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Makigami, K., Pynoos, J. The evolution of home modification programs in Japan. Ageing International 27, 95–112 (2002). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12126-003-1004-x

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