The Healing Power of Care Beauty for Terminally Ill Patients in Hospice

As terminally ill patients reflect on their lives, the way they wish to spend their final moments becomes an essential topic. In recent years, there has been a shift from merely discussing medical needs to also considering the quality of experiences and relationships. This has led to the promotion of 'life conferences' (ACP) by the Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare, encouraging discussions on how individuals wish to spend their time during the end stages of life.

In this context, the Mazaas Home Hospice in Minami-Kashiwa, Chiba Prefecture, has embraced the concept of 'care beauty' as a means for residents to enjoy moments of comfort and joy. This service is managed by Mirai Project, a Tokyo-based company, which has been providing its 'care sweet' professional beauty services since April 2021. Over the course of five years, around 570 residents have taken advantage of this offering.

Care beauty not only focuses on grooming but also fosters interactive experiences through conversations with care beauticians, creating opportunities for residents to enjoy themselves and feel at ease. Recently, there has been an increase in male clients, leading to a broader variety of services that include makeup and nail care.

On September 14, 2026, 'care sweet' will host a photography session for residents and their families, aimed specifically at integrating beauty care into capturing cherished moments. This initiative will allow even bedridden individuals to receive makeup at their bedside, preserving memories in photographs of their appearance.

Expanding the 'Healing Time' for Male Residents

Given that public insurance limits bathing services to twice a week, the Mazaas Home Hospice offers foot baths and foot treatments performed while residents remain in bed. This approach has gained popularity among male residents.

One resident, Mr. Nimura, is a regular user of the care beauty services, enjoying treatments twice a month. On one occasion, he received a foot treatment that involved fragrant creams and a gentle touch while engaging in pleasant conversation. After the treatment, Mr. Nimura expressed, 'I'm happiest when I’m touched', noting feelings of rejuvenation and motivation.

In another instance, Mr. Maeda, who struggles with communication, was seen drifting into a peaceful sleep during his foot treatment, illustrating the soothing effects of the care beauty service.

Communicating Beyond Words

For residents who cannot move and find communication challenging, treatments can lead to significant changes in demeanor. Initially anxious, they often relax as they receive the warmth of the beautician's touch, eventually showing signs of comfort. At times, residents have even formed 'OK signs' with their hands to express gratitude.

Through these interactions, some residents who initially believed that they had no need for beauty services have opened up, expressing a desire to 'live a little longer' after meaningful exchanges with their care beauticians. This highlights the profound impact beauty care can have on igniting the 'will to live' in hospice settings.

Insights from Home Manager, Mr. Shimada

Mr. Shimada, the home manager, shares, 'In a hospice environment where private living spaces are the norm, individualized care is crucial. Care beauty offers a valuable respite for those who may find movement difficult, creating enriching moments that embody the form of care we aspire to provide.'

He notes that the transformative smiles seen on residents during makeovers are often surprising—a stark contrast to their usual expressions, with some even choosing photos taken post-treatment for their memorials.

The planning and execution of care beauty services, entirely handled by care beauticians, also lightens the load for on-site staff. This approach expands conversational opportunities with residents and fosters deeper connections.

Upcoming Events

On September 14th, Mazaas Home Hospice will conduct a photography session merging beauty care and meaningful family time. Throughout the event, even those unable to move will receive skin and grooming care at their bedside, ensuring every resident's individual needs are met and capturing their genuine smiles in photographs. The presence of family members will allow for reflections on the significance of looking ‘beautiful’, ‘enjoying fashion’, and leaving behind lasting images of themselves during their final moments.

Event Details

- Date: September 14, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM
- Location: Mazaas Home Hospice, Minami-Kashiwa, Chiba Prefecture
- Access: Approximately a 7-minute walk from Minami-Kashiwa Station (JR Joban Line)
- Participants: Residents and their families
- Media Notice: Photography and interviews are permitted (please note that conditions may vary based on residents' health).

Media Contacts

For further inquiries about this event and potential interviews, please contact:

- Mirai Project PR Team
- Email: [email protected]

These initiatives illustrate that care beauty can profoundly enhance the quality of life for terminally ill individuals at hospice. The emphasis on beauty and personal connection makes each moment count, allowing expressions of identity even at the end of life's journey.