Society Spot work: a lifeline for Japanese seniors

Senior Japanese citizens and retirees see themselves increasingly compelled to take part-time jobs, relying on apps that provide "spot works." A 70-year-old woman from Tokyo's Itabashi Ward has found employment through a spot work app called Timee. The app connects businesses needing temporary workers with retirees seeking part-time employment. She registered with Timee about a year and a half ago and has completed over 480 shifts, surpassing her peers. The woman typically works four hours a day, doing various tasks such as washing dishes, cleaning restaurants, and stocking vegetables at supermarkets.

"I cannot survive on social security benefits alone," she said, adding that she needs money to play table tennis and grow succulents. She earns around 100,000 yen ($680) monthly through spot work and intends to sign up for more apps to seek better offers. The woman said she chooses shifts depending on her health condition and her schedule of that day. Each time she applies, she works for a new employer and workplace. She prefers working with her hands and said she finds spot work stress-free. But after she puts in six to seven hours on rare occasions, she returns home "exhausted." Apart from the need for income, she finds benefits in working outside. She does not want to feel marginalized by society and believes that being active keeps her healthy.

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However, some seniors have turned to spot-work apps to maintain a "sense of social engagement after retirement." The demand for spot work continues to rise, reflecting the growing number of seniors seeking flexible employment options and the persistent labour shortage around Japan.

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glad there is the option which can keep seniors engaged and less isolated. Sad some need to work to get by, that happens in the US.