Translation and Meaning of: 介護 - kaigo

On this page, we will study the meaning of the Japanese word 介護 (kaigo) and its translation into English. Let's see their different meanings, example phrases, explanations, etymology and the similar words.

Romaji: kaigo

Kana: かいご

Type: noun

L: jlpt-n1

介護

Translation / Meaning: nursing

Meaning in English: nursing

Definition: Provide care and support to people who need assistance in their daily lives, such as the elderly and people with disabilities.

Sumário
- Etymology
- Vocabulary
- Writing
- Phrases

Explanation and Etymology - (介護) kaigo

The word 「介護」 (kaigo) is composed of two kanji: 「介」 and 「護」. The kanji 「介」 can mean "to help" or "to mediate," while the kanji 「護」 has the meaning of "to protect" or "to take care of." Thus, the combination of these characters creates the idea of "auxiliary care" or "protective assistance," describing the practice of taking care of someone who needs help with their daily activities, usually due to old age or debilitating health conditions.

The concept of 「介護」 has become particularly relevant in modern Japan, in response to the growing number of elderly people in the population. The term is used in various contexts, from informal care provided by family members to professional services offered by trained caregivers. This practice plays a fundamental role in today’s Japanese society, reflecting deep cultural values of respect and care for the elderly.

In Japan, the word 「介護」 is often associated with the country's social and health insurance system. In 2000, the Japanese government implemented the Long-Term Care Insurance System (Kaigo Hoken), which aims to provide financial and structural support for those in need of long-term care. This system is uniquely designed to address the challenges of an aging society and represents a progressive and innovative approach to elder care, allowing many care recipients to live in a more dignified and comfortable manner.

Moreover, the word 「介護」 is used to describe a variety of services and professions associated with the care of the elderly and people with disabilities. Kaigo professionals, known as 「介護士」 (kaigoshi), play a vital role in maintaining the quality of life of those they assist, performing tasks ranging from helping with personal hygiene to providing emotional and social support. The demand for these professionals is increasing, leading to ongoing debates about training, regulation, and the recognition of these workers.

Synonyms and similar words

看護 (Kango) - Medical assistance, usually in a nursing context.
介抱 (Kaihō) - Assistance, support, or care for someone who needs help.
介助 (Kaijo) - Physical assistance, usually to people with mobility difficulties.
世話 (Sewa) - Care, assistance, or support, usually in a context of maintenance or supporting a person.
お世話 (Osewa) - Polite form of "sewa," used to show respect or gratitude for the care received.
介添え (Kaizoe) - Support or assistance, particularly in formal situations or at events.
介付け (Kaizuke) - Intermediation service or assistance to someone in need.
介入 (Kainyuu) - Intervention, usually in a context where help or action is needed in a situation.
介護する (Kaigo suru) - Provide care to a person, especially the elderly or sick.
看病する (Kanbyō suru) - Taking care of someone who is sick, usually in a nursing context.
世話する (Sewa suru) - To provide assistance or care to someone, in a more general sense.
お世話する (Osewa suru) - Polite expression for providing care or assistance, showing the caregiver's consideration.
介抱する (Kaihō suru) - To offer care or support to someone in need of help.
介助する (Kaijo suru) - Offer physical help, usually to people in need.