Heart in pieces? Need Cooking Lessons? Just Rent a Grandma
You can cry to your best friend. That’s right. Whether you need a shoulder to cry on, a home-cooked meal, someone to babysit your kids, or even a little bit of hand-made calligraphy for your project — there’s a grandma available who is willing to respond to you — professionally!
Japan’s Aging Population turned the table
While many countries are worried about aging populations and rising pension costs, Japan managed to take an unexpected pitch and turn a business opportunity out of it. More than 9.3 million seniors currently working past age 65 because many don’t want to just sit and sip tea.
So what happened? To date, approximately 100 women from 60 – 94 have signed up and are working — not just as helpers but as grandma-for-hire.
It’s not quite loose change, but it’s reasonable. Each session includes:
- ¥3,300 (around $21 USD) for the grandma’s hourly rate
- ¥3,300 for transportation (in the rustic Japanese countryside transportation is not guaranteed)
And what do you get?
So What Can These Rental Grandmas Do?
A whole lot more than you’d think! Based on OK Obaachan’s official website and user reviews, people rent grandmas for:
Learning traditional Japanese cooking
- Mediation when there is family drama (grandmas are PhDs in family mediation)
- Getting babysitting for the littles
- Handwriting formal Japanese in proper script
- Providing companionship when you’re heartbroken
- Assisting with historical research or life stories
- They are essentially living, wise multitaskers with the warmth, knowledge and grandma energy built in.
Internet Responds: Mostly Wholesome…but also a Little Suspicious
The internet’s reactions fell in the mixed bag, but mostly on the positive side. Many thought it was a nice idea and highlighted some of the unutilized talent from their seniors. Others expressed concerns about the wellbeing and safety of these elderly women being sent to the homes of strangers.
Some even chuckled, “Where are the grandpas?”
Well, surprise! Japan also has those; in fact, they have a service called Ossan Rental, which rents middle-aged men (typically, 30 and older) for anything from casual conversations to running errands.
Why Only Grandmas, Though?
It’s a simple reason. OK Obaachan is owned by Client Partners, a company focused on linking women with talent and unique job opportunities. Their whole business model supports women, either as a friend, family substitute, or home expert.
They even a “women only handyman service.” And if you are looking for a “grandpa for hire,” you’re going to want Ossan Rental.
Final Thought: Age is Not a Barrier, but an Opportunity
When we want to tap into guidance, understanding, or a simply really good bowl of miso soup, there is a grandma willing to deliver it – no strings attached.
And, to be honest, that is kind of beautiful.
