Japan's Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communication released a report in September showing an estimated 27.4 million people over the age of 65 as of 15th September 2007.

This represents 21.5% of the population, a rise of 0.7% from 2006.

In addition, the number of people over 80 exceeded seven million for the first time.

Latest predictions from IPSS predict that people over 65 will account for 40.5% of Jaapn's population by 2055.

The Cabinet Office has now released a white paper in which it suggests that aged people do not necessarily need support from younger generations, saying that in general they remain in good health and have a strong desire to work and take part in social activities.

The Ministry's report states that 5.1 million over-65s had jobs in 2006.

The white paper says that aged people are a “precious resource” and that people must take good care of themselves from an early age so they can continue to be active.

In addition, the paper says, businesses should make efforts to employ the aged, and the public sector should offer opportunities to them.

Whether these suggestions are based on a desire to better the lives of the elderly, or the beginning of the state's intention to abrogate responsibility for their social care remains to be seen.