介護福祉士

• Reading: かいごふくしし
• Romaji: kaigo fukushishi
• Kanji breakdown: 介 (kai) — assist; 護 (go) — protect; 福 (fuku) — fortune; 祉 (shi) — happiness; 士 (shi) — professional
• Pronunciation: /ka.i.ɡo.ɸɯ.kɯ.ɕi.ɕi/

Meaning

Certified care worker; a nationally licensed professional who provides nursing care.

A national qualification in Japan for professionals who provide physical and mental care to the elderly and disabled. Requires passing a national examination. One of the most in-demand professions in Japan's ageing society, working in care facilities, hospitals, and home care.

Examples

1. 介護福祉士の資格を取るために勉強している。 I'm studying to obtain a certified care worker qualification.
2. 介護福祉士は高齢者の日常生活を支援する。 Certified care workers support the daily lives of elderly people.
3. 人手不足のため介護福祉士の需要が高まっている。 Demand for certified care workers is growing due to a labor shortage.

Usage Guide

Context: healthcare, qualifications, social welfare

Tone: professional

Origin & History

Compound of 介護 (nursing care) + 福祉 (welfare: 福 fortune + 祉 happiness) + 士 (professional/specialist). Established as a national qualification by the 1987 Social Worker and Care Worker Act.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: Adults

Social background: Universal