Apparently a driver’s license is now a valued commodity rich in trade value.
In attempt to limit traffic accidents caused by senior citizens, officials in Japan have implemented a program turning an individual license into virtual currency on the Ramen market. The Guardian reports that residents over the age of 65 are being offered as incentive for surrendering their driver’s licence at a local police station a sizable discounts on a noodle combo meal, including a salad and chopsticks.
Of course the island nation is facing the reality of a pending societal crises as the aging population is dwindling due to low birth rates perpetuated by the rise of woman gravitating to the role as head of households, combined with a stringent immigration policy. A 15% decrease in Japan’s population is expected by 2050 and the majority of citizens will be over the age of 50.
Seniors who attempt to take the gentle plunge into the golden years by surrendering their driving privileges in the Aichi prefecture will pay about $4.50 for a Ramen meal at any of the 176 locations of the Sugakiya restaurant chain. Similar incentive programs are being offered in various regions through out the nation.
Read the full Guardian story here.
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