Your First Guide to "Needing Care 1": What is it? What can I do? What kind of support is available?

When a family member or yourself is certified as requiring long-term care 1, you may ask yourself, "What kind of condition is he or she in? What can I do now? What can I do from now on? In this article, we will explain in an easy-to-understand manner the characteristics of the "Long-Term Care Needs 1" status, the services available, and the actual changes in daily life. Please refer to this article as the first step in the process of caregiving.


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What is "1 in need of nursing care"?

Under the long-term care insurance system, the level of care required is categorized as "Support 1 and 2" and "Care 1 to 5".
Care requirement 1" is the condition that requires the lightest level of care.It is.

Characteristics of daily life

  • Can generally take care of him/herself (eating, dressing, toileting, etc.)
  • Getting up and walking is becoming somewhat unstable
  • Partial assistance is required for bathing, going up and down stairs, etc.
  • Mild or no dementia (slow progression)

For example,I can take a bath by myself, but I only need help when I get into the bathtub," or "I'm worried that I might fall, so I need you to watch over me."This is often the case.


Main services available for those who "need long-term care 1

Once you are certified as requiring long-term care 1, you are eligible to use long-term care insurance services. The maximum amount that can be used per month is approximately166,920 yen (as of August 2025)The co-payments are based on the amount of the medical expenses. Within this range, the co-payment is in principle only 10% (20-30% for those with income above a certain level).

Examples of available services

service nameContentsApproximate frequency of use
Home-visit care (home help)Daily living assistance for cooking, cleaning, shopping, etc., and physical assistance for bathing and toileting2 to 3 times a week
home-visit bathBathing assistance using a dedicated bathtub at home2-4 times a month
home nursingHealth checks and medical care by nursesOnce or twice a week
nursing in the homeBathing, meals, rehabilitation, and recreation at day care facilities2 to 3 times a week
Rental of welfare equipmentHandrails, walkers, nursing beds, etc.as necessary
home improvementInstallation of handrails, elimination of steps, etc. (subsidized up to 200,000 yen)In principle, one time only

*Services can be individually combined in consultation with a care manager.


Points to keep in mind in daily life

1. fall prevention is important

People requiring long-term care 1 are more likely to fall due to decreased muscle strength and balance. Review the environment for indoor steps and slippery floors, and consider installing handrails and nonslip devices.

2. devise ways to lighten the burden on caregivers

Even if you think you are fine because you are still in good health, the burden on family members who are caring for the elderly gradually increases. By starting to use our services early, you will be able to continue to care for your loved one without strain.


How do you create a care plan?

Once you are certified that you need long-term care, you can use the community comprehensive support center or in-home care support office'scare managerand make a care plan (a plan for using nursing care services). As a general rule, those who require long-term care 1Home Care Support OfficeThe plan will be created in the following manner.

The care manager listens to the wishes of the individual and his/her family, proposes the necessary services, and even arranges for them to be provided, so you can feel at ease even if it is your first time.


Actively utilize local support.

Numata City and other communities offer a variety of support services to help the elderly live at home.

For example, weTaiseikai GroupThen, even those who need nursing care 1 Day care services, home care services, and welfare equipment rental servicesWe offer the following services. We can guide you to services such as individualized assistance for physical conditions, dementia prevention programs, and day rehabilitation with transportation to keep your life enriched.

While you may be thinking, "Maybe it's too early to tell," your physical and mental state can change abruptly.
Please feel free to just take a tour or contact us for a free consultation.

▶ For more information, click here.

Medical Corporation Taiseikai Uchida Hospital // Social Welfare Corporation Kuninkai


summary

Care Required 1" is the early stage of a person's need for long-term care. It can be said that the patient can receive necessary support while maintaining independence. By making good use of nursing care services, it is possible to reduce the burden on the family while maintaining the quality of life of the patient.

I know there are many things you don't understand about first-time caregivers, but please don't worry alone; rely on local experts and support organizations.

\ Please feel free to contact us if you have any problems /.
Medical Corporation Taiseikai Uchida Hospital Community Medical Cooperation Office

(TEL) 0278-24-5329

Click here for Taiseikai's care services.

Click here for Kuninkai's nursing care services.

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