Japan's largest women's prison is facing a serious social problem in recent years due to the aging population of its inmates, according to a report by CNN, link, the number of prisoners over the age of 65 in women's prisons in the country has significantly increased, which is related to the country's overall demographic changes.
The majority of the elderly inmates were forced to commit crimes, with most of them being incarcerated due to social isolation, financial difficulties, and loneliness. Among them, there are many lone women who committed petty theft.
The most distressing fact is that in Japan, elderly and lonely women are deliberately committing petty crimes to escape poverty and get into prison. Here, the provision of free lodging, three meals a day, and medical care, and most importantly, the opportunity to live among people and avoid loneliness are compelling these seniors to take such drastic measures.
According to information, the number of elderly people left alone and facing various social difficulties is increasing in Japan. This not only reveals the problem of loneliness in society but also exposes the deficiencies in the pension system. Providing medical assistance to the elderly in prisons and monitoring their mental state requires additional expenses for the government.
According to Professor Miyoko Hayashi from the University of Tokyo, this trend requires not only fighting against crime but also strengthening the support system for the elderly. She says that it is necessary to create programs that help with the social integration of the elderly.
The rapid aging of Japan's population is forcing not only economic but also social systems to undergo significant changes. Experts emphasize that the demographic decline in the country could lead to social risks.
This situation demands a deeper study of Japan's demographic situation and its impact on society.
Abdullah Sayyid
