A unique service called “OK Obaa chan” (“Ok, Grandma!”) is rapidly gaining popularity in Japan, offering people the chance to rent grandmothers for support and companionship. For a fee of 3,300 yen (about $22) per hour, clients can hire women aged 60 to 94, with around 100 grandmas registered on the platform. Users can browse the profiles and choose the one they feel most comfortable with.
These rental grandmothers help with household chores, teach traditional cooking, engage in conversation, and provide emotional support. The service is especially valued by lonely individuals and families who need extra care, as well as young people seeking wisdom and warmth from an older generation.
Public opinion on this initiative is divided. Some see it as a meaningful way to keep seniors active and give them new opportunities, while others raise concerns about safety when visiting strangers’ homes. As loneliness becomes a growing issue in modern Japan, this service is seen as a potential solution for emotional well-being.
It is worth noting that Japan already has a culture of renting “family members,” with services even offering “uncle rentals” for various purposes. The “OK Obaachan” project is run by Client Partners, a company specializing in promoting women’s employment. In addition, the company offers “friend for rent” and “temporary family member” services.
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