I have allways respected the old in japan and would like to offer my hands to the old in japan in return for there guidance in ceremony of the japanese customs.I will travel to japan to ask permission soon but only from the oldest in the clan that i will speak to and will give a gift of thanks in the form of a gift from my home and garden.Whats your opinion.
2007-03-12 00:33:04 · 4 answers · asked by Anonymous in Travel ➔ Asia Pacific ➔ Japan
I think you have been watching too many old American movies set in Japan or maybe old Kurosawa films. Japan isn't like that anymore, if it ever was. You wanna take care of old people, stay home. Most of the oldest generation in Japan would think you were a bit of freak if you came to one of their homes to take care of them and learn the "ceremonies of the clans." Go and teach English like a normal person. There are plenty of opportunities to learn about Japanese culture once you get there.
2007-03-12 02:16:54 · answer #1 · answered by Love Shepherd 6 · 3⤊ 1⤋
I am involved in volunteering and wherever there is an opportunity I don't mind where am I or what ages of the people I am going to work with..but in your case, it is different because you have specific reason. Maybe you can go to Japan and see for yourself..First is the language barrier..I have watched on documentary about seniors and the caregivers from other nationalities and the major issues,it is not that easy to start but those people are gifted with their abilities to take care of the people only the language and practice would be their challenge next, you have to earn their trust. If you are a foreigner, you can find any recognized volunteering association for the seniors, this would be an option if they would accept you or visit any senior homes and offer to give your time. Ceremony of Japanese customs are very expensive and no possibility of getting invitations from outsiders.. I heard about this and it is not about support organization or social..it is more of a connection.
May you find what you are looking for.
good day and have a nice trip!
2007-03-12 04:24:18 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 3⤋
Retirement homes (in Japan they are called "Group Homes") love volunteers to just sit and talk to their residents. But your biggest problem is language. If you speak Japanese, I am sure they would love you to come and spend time with the old folks. It would be more an irritation for you and the residents if you had to drag a translator around with you.
I think it is very admirable that you are willing to support the senior citizen community in Japan. I wish more people would have that attitude especially among indigenous Japanese. In my younger days, I was sort of scared of old people. Then I got a job with a rehab company that worked exclusively with retirement homes. After talking with the residents and working with them I learned about them and that they have so much to teach us younger, less experienced folk. They are wonderful human beings and everyone must learn to see their value to society at large. I applaud you.
The gift would be nice, but not necessary until you get to know some of the people you are able to communicate with. Your time is your best and most valuable gift.
God Bless!
2007-03-12 03:30:08 · answer #3 · answered by Looking for the truth... 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
go ahead...don't mind the first answerer...traditional japan still exists and they like polite people like you...gambatte!
2007-03-13 17:03:22 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋