介護する

• Reading: かいごする
• Romaji: kaigo suru
• Kanji breakdown: 介 (kai) — mediate, assist; 護 (go) — protect, guard
• Pronunciation: /ka.i.ɡo.sɯ.ɾɯ/

Meaning

To provide nursing care; to look after someone who is elderly or disabled.

A する-verb combining 介護 (nursing care) with する. Describes the act of caring for elderly or disabled individuals, including assistance with daily activities. A key term in Japan's ageing society, frequently appearing in discussions about social welfare, insurance, and family responsibilities.

Examples

1. 母は祖母を自宅で介護している。 My mom takes care of my grandmother at home.
2. 介護する側の負担を軽減する制度が必要だ。 A system to reduce the burden on caregivers is needed.
3. 十年間父を介護した経験を本にまとめた。 I compiled my experience of caring for my father for ten years into a book.

Usage Guide

Context: healthcare, social welfare, family

Tone: serious

Origin & History

Compound of 介 (mediate, assist) + 護 (protect, guard) + する (to do). The kanji combination conveys the idea of protective assistance.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: Adults

Social background: Universal