Seniors Support Seniors at Monthly 'Chatter Diner' in Nara

Oshaberi Shokudo ("Chatter Diner") in Heguri Town, Nara Prefecture, has become a beloved community hub where seniors gather for meals and lively conversation. Organized by the town's Longevity Association Federation, the event is held once a month. The meals, prepared by senior volunteers for senior participants, create a warm, social atmosphere that fosters connection.

This initiative aims to strengthen community ties and reduce isolation among seniors. Due to its success, there are plans to replicate the model in other parts of the town.

Seniors Supporting Seniors

The diner is held at the Prism Heguri Health and Welfare Center on the fourth Saturday of each month at 11:30 AM. For ¥300 JPY (around $2 USD), attendees enjoy a meal of curry over rice, accompanied by a beverage and dessert. The event is so popular that applications regularly exceed the 50-person seating limit.

Participation is limited to members of the federation, which operates similarly to other senior societies across the country. Members actively contribute to all aspects of the diner, from cooking to setting up the venue.

One regular participant shared, "Talking about our health while enjoying delicious meals with others really stimulates the mind."

The lead cook agreed, adding, "The smiles and comments like 'It was delicious' or 'I'll come back again' make it all worthwhile."

*Volunteers at Oshaberi Shokudo prepare meals for the participants.*

Reducing Isolation

Over the past decade, the federation has seen a decline in membership. To better support the elderly, it established the Mutual Support Division in April 2018. In May 2023, the division launched the diner to encourage seniors to socialize and leave their homes more often.

"Our goal is for active seniors to help those who are less active while they still can," says Yoshimichi Oka, the federation's 83-year-old chairman. Initially, the project faced challenges in obtaining a food service license, but authorities classified the diner as a "cooking workshop," which did not require a license.

Plans for Expansion

The town supports the initiative by waiving fees for the cooking and dining facilities at Prism Heguri. As the diner's popularity grows, the town plans to further expand the initiative in collaboration with the federation.

"We aim to share our management expertise with the 37 longevity associations in town to expand the diner initiative to multiple locations," explains Oka. "This will make it accessible to more elderly residents."

The town's Welfare Division is equally supportive. A representative stated, "Oshaberi Shokudo fosters social interaction, creates a sense of purpose, and helps prevent seniors from eating alone. We are eager to support its expansion to other areas."

(Read the article in Japanese.)

Author: Hiroyuki Kobayashi, The Sankei Shimbun