Connecting Generations: A Fashion Walk with Seniors and Care Professionals

In a groundbreaking initiative, the Care Beauty Institute in Nagoya, operated by Mirai Project Co., Ltd., is set to bring together elderly individuals and care professionals for the fashion event 'LiNK WALK.' Scheduled for February 15, 2026, during the 'Heartful KAiGO in AICHI 2026' program, this unique event will feature ten pairs of models, including participants aged between 70 to 101 years old, who will strut their stuff on the runway.

Among the models, an astonishing 101-year-old woman will take center stage, demonstrating that beauty and vitality are ageless. This fashion walk aims to highlight the importance of intergenerational relationships and the role that beauty can play in enhancing one's quality of life (QOL). By collaborating with current care professionals and students from welfare universities, this event aims to strengthen the bonds of community through shared experiences.

The Essence of 'LiNK WALK'

The 'LiNK WALK' is not just about displaying fashion; it encompasses a deeper narrative of resilience and togetherness. The event will be held at the Japan Welfare University, Handa Campus, allowing visitors to witness a heartwarming display of beauty and support. Each senior model will receive complimentary hair and makeup services from students of the Care Beauty Institute, ensuring they look their best on the runway.

The event's unique approach emphasizes specialized skills in caregiving beauty, as each participant will be treated with compassion, providing not only aesthetic enhancements but also emotional support. The instructors and students of the Care Beauty Institute have been trained to understand the specific needs of elderly individuals, ensuring that every model feels valued and dignified on the runway.

A Focus on Elderly Well-Being

What sets this event apart is the commitment to comfort and safety for all participants. Those who may be using wheelchairs will receive careful attention, as positioning techniques will be employed to ensure they are comfortable and well-cared for. Additionally, students will be trained to recognize the emotional states of the models through conversations, understanding their desires to embody their ideal selves and relive cherished memories. This thoughtful approach aims to elevate the self-esteem of elderly participants by fostering personal connections and mutual understanding.

Personal Stories Inspire a New Career Path

In conjunction with the fashion walk, the Care Beauty Institute has made significant strides in community building since its inception just two and a half years ago. With over 330 participants enrolled, many of them are women in their 40s to 60s who are driven by personal experiences of caregiving. These individuals seek to transform their caregiving experiences into meaningful career paths in beauty for the elderly.

One example is a 38-year-old former nursery teacher who turned to the program after a deeply moving experience with her grandmother during end-of-life care. Inspired to help others avoid the regrets she faced, she dedicates her weekends to training at the institute while maintaining her regular job. Her determination to bring light to others in difficult times exemplifies the profound impact of this program and the beauty industry.

Another participant, a 60-year-old housewife, discovered the power of beauty treatments while caring for her family and volunteers at local cafes for seniors, proving that beauty can significantly uplift spirit and vigor of seniors and their caregivers alike.

The Heartfelt Message from Event Organizers

The upcoming 'LiNK WALK' hopes to convey a powerful message through positivity and connection. As the ambassador for culture and care, Akemi Yamazaki expressed, "No one must walk alone. When we walk together, we create beauty and understanding across generations." This sentiment resonates with every participant, reinforcing the essence of building community and celebrating one another through beauty.

As the event draws closer, the anticipation builds to witness a captivating display of beauty, interconnection, and care among generations, redefining how we view aging and unity in the community. The Care Beauty Institute encourages everyone to join this extraordinary event and celebrate not just fashion, but the bonds that make our lives rich and meaningful.