The revitalization of “Osekkai”: How the COVID-19 pandemic has emphasized the importance of Japanese voluntary social work

Abstract

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has caused worldwide panic, and rural areas are no exception. In Japanese rural areas, many older people live alone and lack access to reliable sources of information. During the pandemic, older adults were initially isolated from their communities because of the recommended social isolation measures, even when there were no cases in rural communities. However, various formal and informal caregivers went beyond their usual roles and tried to reconnect the older rural population with their communities and nurtured their social connections; Japanese community workers mitigated the stress and fear experienced by the rural elderly in the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, this pandemic encouraged rural Japanese customs. One such custom is “Osekkai.” The Japanese word Osekkai describes actions that someone considers useful and meaningful to perform for others. Osekkai involves both formal and informal care, and as social gatherings began to disappear, Osekkai allowed individuals to deal with the various social problems created by the pandemic. Conferences based on Osekkai can strengthen rural people’s connections and improve their social capital. Activities of rural people that are constructed through Osekkai conferences are not only evidence-based but also based on reliance. This unprecedented pandemic has taught us not only the importance of usual healthcare and precautions against infection but also that nurturing social connection in communities is crucial in the face of social turbulence.

Association between Immunoglobulin G Levels and Adverse Effects Following Vaccination with the BNT162b2 Vaccine among Japanese Healthcare Workers

“…For the effective distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine during the pandemic, appropriate information should be provided about the relationship between the intensity of adverse effects and the amount of acquired immunity against COVID-19. Effective sharing of difficulties and providing healthcare information regarding the COVID-19 vaccine among citizens can improve health literacy, relationships, and satisfaction among community members, especially in rural areas, during the pandemic [ 47 , 48 ]. To sustain rural communities, citizens and central and local governments should collaborate to provide appropriate information regarding COVID-19 vaccines.…”

Rural Social Participation through Osekkai during the COVID-19 Pandemic

“…In Japan, both formal and informal rural care providers establish flexible meetings called Osekkai conferences, which allow people to get together and discuss community problems. Conferences currently take place in small groups to avoid the spread of COVID-19 in rural communities [16]. At the Osekkai conferences, rural residents present their community's problems and social issues.…”

“…Osekkai is one such cultural practice. It is a traditional Japanese behavior wherein people help others to create a safe and comfortable community, and it can increase social participation among its practitioners [16]. Osekkai is an unconscious behavior in Japanese communities.…”

Effectiveness and Challenges in Local Self-Governance: Multifunctional Autonomy in Japan

“…In this context, the availability of multiple resources and functions can reduce the burdens associated with LSG, such as accessibility and availability of resources for lives [ 32 , 33 ]. This process can successfully involve stakeholders in each community and in the local government, which can increase citizens’ empowered activities for others and improve health conditions in rural communities [ 34 , 35 , 36 ]. Future studies should investigate the specific qualitative and quantitative operational elements involved in this collaborative process.…”