In 3/2025, A Kai and eight friends formed a bodyguard group, offering escort services and handling domestic violence cases. One day, they were hired to visit a lonely elderly man in a residential complex. The man's younger brother worried he was being bullied by neighbors. Initially, the man protested, deeming it a waste of money. However, after three months of daily visits, conversations, and walks with the young men, he gradually accepted their presence.
"The contract was worth only 7,000 CNY, but I realized caring for the elderly is vastly different from protecting younger individuals. It requires more patience and comfort than deterrence," Kai said.
A Kai's group received an increasing number of similar requests. They once impersonated grandchildren to help an isolated elderly woman in a nursing home. They brought gifts and skillfully connected her with roommates, creating a warmer atmosphere. On their last day, the woman clutched Kai's hand, tearfully asking when they would return.
Not every case is straightforward. Old age is often associated with vulnerability and irritability. A lonely elderly man in Dalian frequently quarreled with his neighbors. When Kai's group appeared as his adopted sons, the neighbors' attitudes softened. After days of being accompanied to the market, playing chess, and enjoying tea, the man became less irritable and more open.
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A Kai (seated on the bed) and his colleagues visiting an elderly woman in Dalian, China in 9/2025. Photo: QQ |
A Kai (seated on the bed) and his colleagues visiting an elderly woman in Dalian, China in 9/2025. Photo: QQ
Entering this line of work, Kai realized that loneliness among the elderly is more prevalent than he imagined. Many have lost children, spouses, or chosen not to marry or have children. Even those who were once wealthy and successful can end up alone.
This profession attracts mixed reactions. Some believe hiring "sons" implies unfilial children. In reality, most clients are children living far away, unable to provide regular care. "It's not about shirking responsibility but offering an alternative form of support," Kai explained.
Another misconception is that this job only requires physical strength. Kai emphasized that accompanying the elderly demands emotional stability, listening skills, and the ability to mediate conflicts. Elderly individuals are sensitive and easily hurt; a careless remark can trigger a strong reaction.
After three months, the group grew from its initial 9 members to over 1,000 registered collaborators, including former soldiers, lawyers, and office workers. They joined for various reasons: social responsibility, a desire to help, or as a side job.
The average monthly income for each member is around 10,000 CNY. Service fees range from a few hundred to several thousand CNY depending on the complexity and risks involved. The group can receive hundreds of orders each month. "The income isn't exceptionally high, but it's quite promising for a startup," Kai noted.
Behind this seemingly unusual profession lies a genuine need. A 2021 Chinese government survey revealed that about 60% of senior citizens live alone; in many rural areas, this figure approaches 70%. Nearly 80% of the elderly fear that if they suddenly fall ill or encounter an accident, no one will be there to care for them.
"I've come to understand that what the elderly truly desire is not just food and clothing but companionship, support, and a sense of dignity so that their old age isn't disregarded," Kai said.
Video of A Kai's group working as "rented sons". Source: Douyin
Bao Nhien (From QQ)
