TOKYO — In Tokyo, certain daycare facilities offer cooking classes for older adults. One such place is known as the “Nanairo Cooking Studio.” Four similar centers can be found throughout the city. The facility located in Jiyugaoka has a café-like appearance; it’s neat and modern, making it easy and secure for seniors to navigate.
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During a single cooking session, the elderly participants prepared an array of five distinct meals including fish burgers, chicken mixed with edamame beans, seafood-infused rice, potato soup, and a fresh salad. The experience was enjoyable for all involved, fostering camaraderie through food preparation. Interestingly, some of the older adults were able to continue their culinary activities from seated positions using wheelchairs.
Midori Tai, aged 92, swiftly diced the vegetables. She mentioned, “My spouse owned a restaurant, and I picked up cooking just by observing him.”
Misako Mori, aged 88, expressed joy in preparing various dishes. She shared, “I usually prepare straightforward meals at home. But here, there’s an abundance of different foods to cook. It brings me pleasure.”
Noriko Kageyama, who is 85 years old and uses a wheelchair, shared her experience: “Even while seated, I am able to prepare meals. Cooking and sharing laughter with others brings me joy.”
Elderly individuals experience pride as they learn cooking from genuine chefs. Engaging in meal preparation aids in maintaining both physical health and mental acuity for seniors. Additionally, these recipes include additional steps designed to assist seniors in honing their culinary abilities.
Following the class, older students have the option to take meals home for dinner or distribute them among their family members.
In 2015, Nanairo Cooking Studio inaugurated its initial location. A staff member named Misako Kaminaga commented, “Preparing meals assists elderly individuals in having an enjoyable day. It allows them to stay engaged, acquire new skills, and derive happiness from producing something delicious.”
(Digital News Group translation from Japanese original by Reiko Noguchi)
Vocabulary
seniors: older people
stylish: looking nice
a specialized chair equipped with wheels designed for individuals who have difficulty walking
proud: feeling joy over an accomplishment of yours
recipe: guidelines for preparing cuisine
rehabilitation: tasks aimed at helping your physical and mental well-being recover strength
