lowance preservation measures. Moreover, the popularization and improvement of retirement allowance systems among small and medium-sized enterprises will be pursued.
c. Promoting asset accumulation, etc. for the elderly
To help the elderly live better-off lives, the development of financial products with the aim of stabilizing incomes of the elderly and self-help asset accumulation through the improvement of various financial services will be promoted. Further support will be provided to help working people systematically accumulate their assets while they work regularly and their employers are making efforts to support this.
In addition, to facilitate self-help by people in response to their needs for more affluent and peaceful lives when they become old, the popularization and utilization of personal pensions and the National Pension Fund will be promoted by improving over-the-counter consultation services, etc.
Furthermore, to help the elderly to utilize their assets, consideration will be given to the reverse mortgage system in which loans will be provided for the elderly on the security of their own houses. Moreover, as part of the effort to help the elderly manage their assets, systems to protect the rights of the senile dementia elderly will be developed.
2. Health and Welfare
Lifelong comprehensive health improvement will be promoted in order to help people improve their health while they are still young and maintain their health when they get old or when they get ill, in their daily life, as well as helping them live a peaceful and fulfilling life, enjoy longevity.
With respect to health, medical and welfare services, a system, in which someone who needs support can easily be provided with services necessary for their independence, will be established by steadily implementing the "New Gold Plan" which was drawn up in 1994, following the review of the "Ten-Year Strategy to Promote Health Care and Welfare for the Elderly."
In addition, a system will be established, in which medical care will be provided. With regard to long-term care services, a mechanism, with which necessary financial resources can be secured toward the future based on the principle of solidarity between the elderly and working people, will be established through extensive understanding and cooperation among the people. When establishing such a system or mechanism, it is important to
