The Aporia
In Chinese cities, despite bustling crowds, many residents feel isolated and lonely. As a response, a new industry known as the "loneliness economy" has emerged, where individuals hire temporary companions to alleviate this isolation. The BBC's Stephen McDonell visited one such company that offers elderly people temporary child-like companions for hire, aiming to provide emotional support and reduce loneliness. This service reflects the growing need in urban China for social connections amid crowded yet disconnected communities.
Why the lonely in China are hiring 'temporary children'. (2026, October 13). BBC News. https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/videos/cm8xkxn8lqkeo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss
“Why the lonely in China are hiring 'temporary children'.” BBC News, 13 Oct. 2026, https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/videos/cm8xkxn8lqkeo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss.
“Why the lonely in China are hiring 'temporary children'.” BBC News, October 13, 2026. https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/videos/cm8xkxn8lqkeo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss.
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