What is the perception of foreign care workers on the working period in Japan and its affecting factors

Abstract

  The Japanese government implemented various residence statuses to invite foreigners as care workers. It is likely that such foreign care workers will increase in the future. However, there is a paucity of the research on their perception. This paper especially focused on foreign care workers working under the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) and residence status called “Kaigo”, and then explored the literature to capture their perception on working period in Japan and its affecting factors. Results: 23 literatures matched. As for the working period, around 5 years was often considered among EPA candidates from Indonesia and Philippines. The related factors are categorised to <demographic attributes> <religious and cultural differences> <conflict of identity> <the relationship with Japanese care workers>. Conclusion: Foreign care workers’ minds can change positively or negatively through interaction with Japanese workers. In order to gain their positive perception, Japanese need to be aware of societal and cultural differences. What is more, further development of the quality of care demands that discussion with such workers be held about what constitutes Japanese care and how the level of care could be developed with their cooperation.