Japan's Centenarian Population Exceeds 100,000 for the First Time

Centenarian Population Milestone

Japan's health ministry announced that the number of people aged 100 or older has exceeded 100,000 for the first time. The country is now home to 107,677 centenarians, the highest number globally, with 88% being women. The oldest woman is Kishimoto Fuyo, 114, from Kyoto City, and the oldest man is Kato Hikaru, 112, from Kumamoto.

Factors Contributing to Longevity

Health Minister Kenichiro Ueno attributed the increase in longevity to advancements in medicine and technology. Experts also cite a healthy diet, predominantly consisting of fish, vegetables, and rice, and an active lifestyle, including regular walking, public transport use, cycling, and stretching, as contributing factors. Companies have also developed products like powered exoskeletons and auto-adjusting eyewear for the older population.

Demographic Challenges and Economic Impact

Despite the positive aspect of longer lifespans, Kenichiro Ueno warned about the challenge of maintaining a sustainable social security system. Japan's total fertility rate dropped to a record low of 1.14, far below the 2.1 children per woman needed for population replacement. The total population is projected to decline to 87 million by 2070, a 30% decrease from its 2008 peak of 128 million.

Aging Population and Government Response

Residents aged 65 and older currently constitute about 30% of the population, expected to reach nearly 40% by 2070. Japanese authorities have labeled this trend an 'existential crisis,' with Prime Minister Sanae Takichi calling it a 'quiet emergency.' Government programs and subsidies aimed at increasing birth rates have not been effective. Experts point to complex reasons, including lower marriage rates, more women in the workforce, and the rising costs of raising children. While immigration has increased, foreigners make up only about 3% of the population, and opposition to further immigration has grown.