Tokyo, Japan – An 81-year-old Japanese woman, identified as Akiyo, has been intentionally committing crimes to secure a place in prison, citing financial struggles and loneliness as her main reasons.
Akiyo, who has been jailed twice for theft, first turned to crime in her 60s when she stole food to survive. As she aged, her situation worsened, forcing her to rely on a meager pension received every two months. Facing financial insecurity and an uncertain future, she resorted to stealing again, knowing that prison would provide her with free meals, shelter, and healthcare.
“In prison, I don’t have to worry about food, rent, or anything else. Outside, I am alone and struggling. There’s no point in me living like that,” Akiyo reportedly told authorities.
Her case highlights the growing issue of elderly crime in Japan, where many seniors, especially those without family support, find themselves trapped in financial distress. With limited social welfare options and rising living costs, some elderly individuals view incarceration as a safer and more stable alternative to struggling in poverty.
Japan has been facing an increasing trend of senior citizens turning to crime due to economic hardships and social isolation. Experts suggest that the government needs to address this issue by improving social security measures and offering better support systems for the elderly.
As Akiyo faces another prison term, her story raises important questions about Japan’s aging population and the adequacy of its social safety net.