June 2, 2025
Nestled in the lush green mountains of Odawara, Kanagawa, Yoko-no-Sono Nursing Home provides compassionate older adult care and is rich in community spirit. Founded in 1953 by the Choju-Kai Social Welfare Corporation, this facility has evolved from a fee-based home into a comprehensive care center offering intensive, short-term, daytime, and low-cost home services. Its mission is to provide dignified living for older adults, including those with dementia and disabilities, fostering a sense of belonging and purpose.
During our recent visit, our group was greeted at the nearby train station by a friendly staff member who escorted us to the facility in a van. Upon arrival, we were guided through the customary hygiene practices: handwashing and changing into indoor slippers, ensuring a clean and respectful environment for all.
The facility's architecture harmonizes with its natural surroundings. The greenery of the mountains envelops the building, cultivating a peaceful atmosphere that promotes relaxation and well-being. Seasonal flowers, such as hydrangeas in summer and sakura blossoms in spring, are thoughtfully incorporated into the baths, offering a connection to nature's cycles.
Inside, the energy is comforting and vibrant. Elderly residents engage in various activities, from arts and crafts to games, all under the attentive care of dedicated staff members. A particularly memorable moment was meeting a 107-year-old resident who has called Yoko-no-Sono home for 16 years. She showed us warmth, pulling me in for a heartfelt compliment, and she even recently modeled for the Shiseido makeup company!
Recognizing the challenges posed by Japan's aging population, Yoko-no-Sono has sought international labor to enhance its caregiving capacity. The facility employs workers from overseas, including Vietnam, to address the caregiver shortage.
Another highlight of our visit was the opportunity to ring the "longevity bell" on the property. This tradition symbolizes the facility's commitment to celebrating the lives and milestones of its residents, honoring their journeys and contributions.
Yoko-no-Sono Nursing Home exemplifies a holistic approach to elder care, blending tradition, community, and innovation. Through its dedication to providing a supportive and enriching environment, it not only cares for the elderly but also celebrates their lives, fostering a culture of respect and appreciation. I am very appreciative that we had the opportunity to visit and learn from the practices at Yoko-no-Sono and look forward to pouring my insights back into my practices at the University of Maryland.
Mariya Ahmed
MD Candidate, Class of 2028
UMB School of Medicine