China's $7.4 billion loneliness industry sees elderly hiring 'temporary children'
- China’s loneliness industry was valued at $7.4 billion in 2025, according to Sinolink estimates.
- Elderly people hire companions for hot meals, household assistance and emotional support as families live apart.
- Beijing delivery worker Wang Yingwei calls his team “community children” while assisting elderly residents twice daily.
- Paid medical escorts also accompany younger clients to hospitals, collect test results and pick up medicines.
Source: livemint.com
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