Story perspectives

Japan's Care Sector Faces Labor Shortage, Welcomes Foreign Workers

1/2/2026

Summary

Story summary

Japan faces a significant elderly care labor shortage as the population ages, with care workers totaling 2.126 million in 2023—the first annual decline.
The government plans to allow up to 1.23 million foreign care workers by fiscal 2028.
Currently about 90,000 foreign workers assist in care roles, but retention suffers as many move to urban areas.
Successful facilities treat foreign workers as long-term professionals by offering career paths and support.

1 of 1

Story summary

Japan faces a significant elderly care labor shortage as the population ages, with care workers totaling 2.126 million in 2023—the first annual decline.
The government plans to allow up to 1.23 million foreign care workers by fiscal 2028.
Currently about 90,000 foreign workers assist in care roles, but retention suffers as many move to urban areas.
Successful facilities treat foreign workers as long-term professionals by offering career paths and support.