A Japanese nursing care company has opened a facility in the Philippines that offers Japanese-style elderly care.
The care center was opened last March in Pasig City, near the capital Manila. It provides daycare services for 18 people.
"My husband sees everyone else having a good time," said a woman who drops her husband off at the facility. "This makes him happy and he has a good time, too."
Estimates suggest people aged 65 and over will account for seven percent of the population in the Philippines as early as 2030. The country is quickly becoming an "aging society."
The elderly in the Philippines tend to stay at home once they start losing their physical abilities. The new center provides a Japanese standard of care, which aims to help people maintain active lives so they can live on their own for as long as possible.
One woman was using a wheelchair when she started going to the facility. She has since been taught how to walk again using two canes.
"The power of Japanese-style nursing care is that even people who are bed-ridden can regain the ability to stand up or walk," said Masuda Masatoshi, president of Japanese nursing care firm INFIC. "I want to expand it across the Philippines and help spread smiles."
Demand for elderly facilities in the Philippines will only grow in the coming years as the population continues to age. Pasig City is considering launching another care center.

Quiz 1:
When did the Japanese nursing care facility open in the Philippines?
A. Last December
B. Last March
C. Next March
D. Last September

Quiz 2:
What is the primary goal of the Japanese standard of care provided at the facility?
A. To move elderly individuals into assisted living facilities.
B. To provide recreational activities for elderly individuals.
C. To help people maintain active lives and remain independent.
D. To teach elderly individuals how to use wheelchairs.

Quiz 3:
According to Masuda Masatoshi, what is a key benefit of Japanese-style nursing care?
A. It can help even bed-ridden individuals regain mobility.
B. It provides a social outlet for isolated individuals.
C. It is less expensive than traditional Philippine care.
D. It allows families to avoid caring for elderly relatives.

[Answer block]
Answers:
Quiz 1: B
Quiz 2: C
Quiz 3: A