Japan's healthcare system is confronting multiple challenges as the nation grapples with an aging population, antimicrobial resistance threats, and seasonal safety concerns that particularly affect elderly residents and their families. According to a recent Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare survey reported by NHK, approximately 225,000 people remain on waiting lists for special nursing homes (tokubetsu yōgo rōjin hōmu) as of April 2025. While this represents a decrease from figures recorded three years ago, the substantial backlog highlights the ongoing strain on Japan's elderly care infrastructure. For foreign residents with aging parents or relatives in Japan, these waiting times can create significant challenges in securing appropriate long-term care facilities. Special nursing homes provide round-the-clock care for elderly individuals who require substantial assistance with daily activities. The persistent waiting lists reflect a fundamental mismatch between supply and demand in Japan's rapidly aging society, where over 29% of the population is now aged 65 or older. The reduction in waiting numbers, while positive, still leaves hundreds of thousands of families navigating complex interim care arrangements, often relying on home care services, day care facilities, or private nursing homes that can be significantly more expensive. For expats living in Japan, understanding the elderly care system becomes crucial when considering long-term residency or bringing elderly family members to the country. The application process for special nursing homes typically requires assessment of care needs, and priority is generally given to those requiring the highest levels of assistance. Foreign residents should be aware that language barriers and unfamiliarity with the system can complicate the application process, making it advisable to seek assistance from local welfare offices or bilingual care coordinators. Meanwhile, Japan is taking proactive steps to address emerging health threats through international cooperation. The National Institute of Health and Crisis Management has launched a collaborative initiative with five Southeast Asian nations to investigate the spread of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria, according to NHK. These "superbug" strains, which resist standard antibiotic treatments, pose a growing global health threat. The research partnership aims to track resistance patterns across the region, which is particularly relevant given Japan's significant travel and trade connections with Southeast Asia. For foreign residents, this initiative underscores the importance of responsible antibiotic use and awareness of antimicrobial resistance. Healthcare providers in Japan are generally conservative with antibiotic prescriptions, and patients should avoid requesting antibiotics for viral infections or discontinuing prescribed courses early, both of which contribute to resistance development. As Japan enters the New Year period, seasonal safety concerns also demand attention. Mochi, the traditional glutinous rice cake consumed during New Year celebrations, causes numerous choking incidents annually, particularly among elderly individuals. Livedoor News highlighted this "silent killer," noting that mochi-related choking accidents claim lives every year during the holiday season. The sticky, dense texture of mochi makes it a significant choking hazard, especially for those with reduced swallowing ability. Foreign residents participating in New Year traditions should take precautions: cut mochi into small pieces, chew thoroughly, and supervise elderly family members or guests carefully. Having someone trained in the Heimlich maneuver present during meals is advisable, and knowing the emergency number (119) for ambulance services is essential. These interconnected healthcare challenges—elderly care capacity, antimicrobial resistance, and seasonal safety risks—illustrate the complex pressures facing Japan's healthcare system. For the expatriate community, staying informed about these issues and understanding how to navigate Japan's healthcare infrastructure is essential for ensuring the wellbeing of themselves and their families in their adopted home.