Department store helps solve problems of Japan's aging society

Tokyo: The aging society of Japan has grown year by year, and now the importance of providing good services for the elderly is in great demand in many fields.

Aeon Kasai department store is providing a variety of fine services, amusement, and entertainment for "Grand Generation" a concept that replaces the traditional "seniors" group.

"Grand" confers the idea of "top class" and respectfully refers to senior generation as a top class generation in life experience who performs youthfully and enjoy their lives in wide-ranging styles while maintaining affluent knowledge and experiences.

One of the most unique events that AEON provides is morning activity. This gymnastics class for seniors is very popular and is held twice a day in the morning. The participants engage in the event not only to exercise but also for meeting and communicating with friends.

"I enjoy many kinds of exercises such as "towel gymnastics", slow aerobics and jogging program. I really enjoy participating in such different type of exercises every day," a participant said.

The event has the variety of exercise curriculum, and the schedule does not let people get bored.

"Approximately, hundred people participate daily in our event. They come even if it is raining. People who use our services have not only become healthier than before but also have more smiles and happiness. I always feel so glad that we have such environment when I see their faces," said Kouhei Nakahara from Aeon.

After exercise, some customers decide to spend their whole morning inside the mall. In this fitness club, the elderly can be seen working out as energetic as youth do. It also can be seen in this cafe, how the elderly can relax and enjoy meals right after exercising.

"After breakfast, I exercise again. Just like this, I have been here for almost a day," said another customer.

Providing a wide variety of senior's products is also a remarkable point in this mall. Many smart and specially-designed goods are displayed and lined up. This stick for walking is very compact, lightweight and tough at the same time. These products contribute to supporting elderly daily life.

Services born in Japan contribute to providing more entertainment and amusement for senior people while introducing new business styles for a bright future.