In Japan, it seems some grandmothers with spare time are hiring themselves out to do the everyday tasks the younger generation won’t – or can’t – do.
From cooking and cleaning to offering life advice, these women perform a wide variety of roles.
A “grandmothers-for-hire” service matches their skills with families or individuals in need, allowing them to spend their days helping others in meaningful ways.
But it raises an interesting question: how can older women fill their time more constructively as they age?
Much is written about men taking up hobbies or even starting new careers after retirement, but little is said about women finding purpose in later life. Yet the possibilities are many.
Imagine a grandmother stepping into the role for a family who, through circumstance, doesn’t have one.
She might pick up the children from school, cook them dinner until the parents return, even stay overnight to prepare breakfast the next morning.
Some might even join families on holidays – helping with childcare while enjoying a trip themselves.
For some, family support isn’t available, but opportunities like this could be ideal, especially for outgoing women.
Beyond providing companionship and practical help, the extra income could supplement a pension or Centrelink payment, making life a little easier.
More importantly, it offers purpose and connection. After all, ageing creeps up on everyone, and when it arrives, it’s too late to wonder how those empty hours will be filled.
History reminds us how much women once shouldered in the home.
Of course, not everyone wants to keep busy.
Some may prefer to relax at home, read a book, watch a movie, or enjoy a hobby. There’s nothing wrong with that either.
In the end, we are all different, and in today’s world, older women – like everyone else – have the freedom to choose how to spend their time.
