Businesses Run by Elderly Women in Fukuoka Attracting Attention

Kasuga, Fukuoka Pref., March 17 (Jiji Press)–A company in Fukuoka Prefecture, southwestern Japan, is attracting attention for its diverse businesses operated by women aged 75 or over. The company, Ukiha no Takara, runs cafes, makes and sells bags using recycled milk packages and publishes newspapers. The average age is about 85 for the 40 to 50 people commissioned to work for the company. These operations, mainly run by women who have ample life experience and wisdom, are going well, says Mitsuru Okuma, 45, who represents the company. “I want elderly women to have purposes for life and to smile.” Ukiha no Takara has four cafes called “Ba-chan Kissa” (grandma’s cafe) in the southwestern region where elderly women work as managers and servers. One of the four, located in Kasuga, Fukuoka, opens every Saturday in a rented space. Its “chikuzenni” simmered chicken and vegetables and “dagojiru” dumpling soup are popular. Both are traditional dishes in the southwest. “I feel a purpose in life by fulfilling this role assigned to me,” says Michiko Hida, the 72-year-old manager. She also prepares the menu. “When customers tell me that the food was delicious, it makes me smile.” Mayumi Ota, the 58-year-old daughter of Takeko Okubo, 86, a server at the cafe, says, “My mother has symptoms of dementia, but she is energized when she is working.” The secret of the robust business performance is taking a long time to extract “dashi” soup stock from Japanese kelp and bonito fish, Okuma says. “Careful handwork generates value.” “Many customers come to the cafes looking forward to speaking with elderly people,” says Okuma, who even receives proposals for opening new cafes. “Work gives you a sense of purpose and allows you to make some money,” he says, underscoring the significance of his company’s businesses operated by elderly people. Okuma calls the project “future welfare.” The company has received many visitors, including from elderly care, local government and foreign academic organizations, he says. He is even considering launching an idol group formed by elderly women. “I want people to see old ladies who enjoy life and want them to be a source of hope for the younger generation.” END [Copyright The Jiji Press, Ltd.]