A Japanese VTuber agency has introduced a new virtual “rental granny” service, designed to connect young people with elderly women aged 75 and above.
Japan is well known for its wide range of rental services, which already include rental partners, friends, and even entire families. Now, OTAGROUP has launched its own take on the concept by allowing users to speak directly with a virtual grandmother.
The service is priced at 3,000 yen, approximately 20 US dollars, for a 60-minute session. Customers can hold online conversations through platforms such as Zoom or Google Meet.
While primarily centred on virtual meetings, requests beyond counselling sessions are also possible. One example cited was employing a rental granny to appear as an extra in a film.
OTAGROUP explained that the initiative benefits both its elderly employees and the younger generation using the service.
In a translated response shared via Automaton, the company said: “We have realized that the experience of having someone that can rely on you greatly contributes to the well-being of the elderly. By creating a service which every old lady can participate in, our goal is to boost the self-esteem of the elderly, while also helping resolve issues of young people in urban areas as well.”
The company positions the rental granny scheme as a form of mutual support, offering companionship and guidance to younger clients while providing meaningful roles to older participants.
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