Nearly 1.5 million people in Japan are living as recluses

How many recluses are there in Western countries? How about older citizens? Or is this just a special Japanese phenomenon?

"Nearly 1.5 million people in Japan are living as recluses or “hikikomori,” per a 2022 government study. This fascinating story examines how hikikomoris’ growing number could worsen Japan’s economic stagnation, compounding the issues of declining birth rates and an aging population. The story also explores how the government is attempting to counter the growing wave of loneliness by creating local hikikomori support centers and enacting legislation to promote measures to mitigate social isolation."

Global Health NOW: Best of Global Health Reporting 2023; and A Growing ‘Food Swamp’ in Southeast Asia.