Poster

[1Z123] Aging of Japanese-Brazilian Immigrants in Japan

*Nubia Saori Aikawa¹ (1. Graduate School of Shizuoka University of Art and Culture)

Keywords:Aging society, Nikkei Brazilian, Decassegui, Migration, Narrative, Return, Saudade, Brasilidade

This research examines the aging Japanese-Brazilian community in Japan, a demographic group that has not been given as much depth in discussions of multicultural coexistence, which usually focus on the working-age population or children with diverse cultural backgrounds. As many Japanese-Brazilians, who initially came to Japan as decassegui workers, reach retirement age, they face unique challenges, including economic insecurity, lack of knowledge about pension rights under the Japan-Brazil Social Security Agreement, and a complex decision to remain in Japan or return to Brazil. The study aims to provide insights into the subjective experiences of these seniors, exploring how they maintain a sense of “Brasilidade” (Brazilianness) through daily practices that connect them to their homeland while navigating their lives in Japan. Through ethnographic methods, including interviews and community observations, the research seeks to inform Japanese immigration policy and contribute to a more inclusive understanding of multicultural living that recognizes the needs and contributions of elderly foreign residents. It is hoped that the findings will offer guidance to younger generations of Japanese-Brazilians as they consider their future, bridging the gap between the experiences of different age groups within this community.