The Evolution of Long-term Care Programs; Comment on “Financing Long-term Care: Lessons From Japan”

The need for long-term care (LTC) represents a “new social risk,” one that overlaps with and complements systems of care that pre-date such programs, complicating LTC program design. This commentary expands on Ikegami’s discussion of how these structural factors must be accommodated, as well as historical and cultural factors that influence public expectations of such a program. The commentary specifically focuses on the role of cash payments, caregiver benefits, and the sometimes indistinct line between LTC and health systems. The experiences of countries operating LTC program in a wide range of contexts can illuminate common challenges, as well as some potential solutions to these vexing design and operational issues.