Multicultural Manners : Outside Hollywood, Older Can Be Better

Sumi Tanaka has been in a terrible auto accident, sustaining severe head injuries. they have left her paralyzed on one side of the body. The hospital staff believes that she needs extra help while in the hospital rehab program. They think a family member might serve this purpose.

Since Sumi’s niece, Peggy, has been living in the Tanaka household for more than a year, she seems like an ideal choice. Her college schedule allows her free time during the afternoons and her science background will be useful in assisting with physical therapy.

Each day, Peggy visits her aunt and works with her on the physical therapy exercises. However, instead of being pleased at having a close family member help her, Sumi appears doubtful of her niece’s abilities.

When Peggy gives Sumi instructions, Sumi becomes balky. When Peggy corrects a position, Sumi is offended.

What went wrong?

Sumi was a traditional Japanese. She had great respect for the wisdom of elders. Therefore, it was difficult for her to take direction from a person several decades younger than herself. To Sumi’s way of thinking, a younger person could not know more than she did.

Ultimately, the staff recognized that there was a problem with Sumi’s progress and found an older nurse to take Peggy’s place. As a result, Sumi’s attitude changed and her condition dramatically improved.