Japan faces a complex interplay of challenges related to its aging population, including strained social security systems, a shortage of hospital beds, and a housing bubble in certain areas. The country's generous social security net, designed for a smaller, younger population, is now struggling under the weight of an increasing elderly demographic. This strain manifests in various ways, from longer waiting times for medical care to reduced pension benefits. Simultaneously, the number of hospital beds per capita has been declining for years, leading to overcrowded facilities and delays in receiving necessary treatment. This shortage is particularly acute in rural areas, exacerbating existing healthcare disparities. Adding to these pressures is the uneven distribution of housing. While a housing bubble inflates prices in major metropolitan areas like Tokyo, leaving many young people unable to afford homes, rural areas face a different problem: depopulation and an abundance of vacant properties. This geographic imbalance further complicates resource allocation, as investment and infrastructure improvements tend to concentrate in booming urban centers, leaving rural areas even more underserved. The government is attempting to address these interconnected problems with a variety of policies, including reforms to the pension system, investments in rural healthcare infrastructure, and initiatives to revitalize declining rural communities. However, the effectiveness of these measures remains to be seen, as the issues are deeply entrenched and require long-term solutions. The issue of affordable housing for young people is particularly concerning. High property prices in urban centers are not only pushing young people further from city centers, creating longer commutes, but also limiting their ability to form families and contribute fully to the economy. This demographic shift has far-reaching consequences, impacting both the short-term economic outlook and the long-term social stability of the nation. The government’s efforts to balance economic growth with social welfare in the context of an aging population are a delicate act of policy-making, constantly tested by the interconnectedness of these various challenges.
1. According to the passage, what is one major consequence of the aging population in Japan?
2. The passage highlights an uneven distribution of housing. What problem does this create in rural areas?
3. What is the main challenge facing the Japanese government in addressing the issues discussed in the passage?
4. Which of the following best describes the overall tone of the passage?