Confusion and concern are spreading among families of children with developmental disabilities and medical professionals over the revision to Japan’s medical fee schedule that took effect on June 1.
On the 27th, Kochi Prefecture announced an administrative punishment against “Residence Wakafuji,” a disability support facility in Shimanto City, Kochi Prefecture, after abuse was found in which a resident was made to eat while naked in a shower room and then left unattended for a prolonged period, leading to the person’s death. The facility will be barred from accepting new residents for three months beginning June 1.
According to police, from June 2020 to April two years ago, the suspect allegedly falsified attendance records on 45 occasions for two child users at a facility he operated in Higashimatsuyama City, and is suspected of defrauding the city of about 8.81 million yen, including disability child day-care benefits.
The number of reports of abuse of persons with disabilities by staff at welfare facilities in Wakayama Prefecture reached 46 in fiscal 2024, the highest since the enforcement of the Act on the Prevention of Abuse of Persons with Disabilities in fiscal 2012, according to a prefectural survey. Of these, 12 cases were officially recognized as abuse.
A recent analysis of a government report showed that nearly 500 people aged 65 and older died between fiscal 2006 and 2024 as a result of murder or abuse by family members or relatives who had been caring for them, highlighting the increasingly harsh environment surrounding in-home caregiving.
A recent analysis of a government report showed that nearly 500 people aged 65 and older died between fiscal 2006 and 2024 as a result of murder or abuse by family members or relatives who had been caring for them, highlighting the increasingly harsh environment surrounding in-home caregiving.
A survey of families of people with disabilities has revealed that nearly 60% responded that they feel they have reached their limit with caregiving (care/assistance). It was also found that about 90% said they are worried about the lives of people with disabilities after their parents have passed away.
A survey of families of people with disabilities has revealed that nearly 60% responded that they feel they have reached their limit with caregiving (care/assistance). It was also found that about 90% said they are worried about the lives of people with disabilities after their parents have passed away.
Following an investigation, four types of abuse, including physical and sexual abuse, were confirmed, and the prefectural government is considering administrative sanctions. According to the Kōchi Prefectural Government, the death occurred at around 7:00 p.m. on January 9 this year at a welfare facility for persons with disabilities in the prefecture.
Japan began implementing a public system on Wednesday 1st April that allows children to attend day care for up to 10 hours per month, regardless of parental employment status, as part of a larger initiative to alleviate child care stress as the number of births continues to decline. Children will be cared for at authorized day care centers and kindergartens. Those with disabilities will also be accepted.
Barrier Free Japan