Workers in the nursing care and welfare sectors are increasingly gathering at so-called "nursing cafes" in an effort to stimulate dialogue in communities on the medical issues that are arising as a result of the nation's graying society.
In Hakusan, Ishikawa Prefecture, a cafe-style event was held in March to formulate ideas for "developing the Ishikawa region." Participants came from a wide variety of occupations, including doctors, care workers, priests and internet business entrepreneurs.
"It wasn't for airing grievances, but we were able to hold productive conversations about how to change the region," said Yohei Kasama, 37, a supervisor of a care facility.