"Discover the alarming phenomenon of elderly Japanese turning to crime for a better life inside prison. Explore the reasons behind their actions and the negative impacts on society. Find out how the government and society can address this issue. Read more on this intriguing topic."
Japan is known as a developed country with a high life expectancy. However, behind its progress and good health, there is a worrying phenomenon: many elderly Japanese intentionally commit criminal acts in order to enter prison. What are the reasons behind this behavior? Let's explore the following discussion.
Elderly Japanese: Numerous, Aging, and Poor
One of the factors that contribute to many elderly Japanese turning to crime is the increasing number and age of the elderly population. According to data from the Japan Statistics Bureau in 2021, there are 36.3 million or 28.95% of the population aged 65 and above in Japan.
This means that one out of every four individuals is an elderly person. Moreover, there are 90,000 centenarians, or individuals aged 100 and above, in Japan¹, which is the highest record in the world.
However, the significant number and advanced age of the elderly population are not matched with adequate welfare. Many elderly Japanese live in poverty, loneliness, and stress. They face high living costs, expensive healthcare expenses, and a lack of support from family or society. Some of them even lack proper housing or decent employment.
Prison: The Best Survival Option
Feeling hopeless, many elderly Japanese choose a shortcut to obtain a better life: entering prison. By becoming inmates, they can receive free housing, 24-hour healthcare services, and other basic necessities. They can also escape from the loneliness and stress that afflict them on the outside.
To enter prison, they usually commit minor crimes such as theft or embezzlement. They do not resist or oppose arrest by the police. In fact, some voluntarily surrender themselves after committing a crime.
One example is Toshio Takata, a 64-year-old grandfather who intentionally stole a bicycle to be incarcerated. He admitted that he prefers to live in prison rather than outside.
Negative Impacts on the Government and Society
Although it may seem like a solution for the elderly Japanese individuals involved, this phenomenon actually has negative impacts on the government and society. Firstly, it highlights social inequality and the failure of the social protection system in Japan.
Secondly, it places a financial burden on the government to manage elderly prisoners.
Thirdly, it diminishes the sense of safety and security for the public who become victims of these crimes.
Therefore, the Japanese government and society need to find ways to address this issue. Some steps that can be taken include improving the well-being and independence of the elderly, providing psychological and social support for those who are lonely and stressed, and offering alternative punishments that are more effective and educational for those who commit crimes.
Conclusion
Many elderly Japanese intentionally become criminals to enter prison. Their reasons are to obtain a better life inside prison, where they can have shelter, healthcare services, and other basic needs. However, this phenomenon has negative impacts on the Japanese government and society, necessitating the search for solutions.
Source: CNBC
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