Japanese company Client Partners has launched a unique service called OK Obaachan (“OK Grandma”) that lets clients hire women aged 60 to 94 for companionship, emotional support, and practical help—charged at around ¥3,300 (about US $20–23) per hour, with a similar fee for transportation .
The service addresses dual needs: offering elderly individuals meaningful work and supplemental income, and providing clients with advice, cooking lessons, babysitting, help with life milestones (like breakups or coming out), or even someone to attend weddings or cheer at events.
With about 100 grandmas currently available, the program taps into the Japanese concept of ikigai, helping seniors feel valued and engaged while offering younger generations a trusted, empathetic presence .
Source: as
