China's young trade volunteer work for cheap housing in nursing homes
A growing number of young people in China are choosing to live in nursing homes in exchange for volunteer work or reduced rent. This trend has sparked discussions on social media, with many seeing it as a practical solution to rising housing costs. Meanwhile, cities across the country are testing new programs to encourage intergenerational co-living. Lin Xiaoyu, a 26-year-old robotics professional, pays just 1,000 yuan ($147) a month for a room in a Foshan nursing home. In return, she provides 30 hours of volunteer service each month. Her experience reflects a broader shift as young people seek affordable housing while helping elderly residents.
Several cities in Jiangsu Province have launched similar schemes, requiring at least 20 hours of volunteer work per month for accommodation. In Lishui, Zhejiang, nursing homes offer rooms to people aged 18 to 45 at the same low monthly rate. Li Min, who runs a nursing home in Jinyun county, notes that young residents often assist seniors with technology, share stories, and bring energy to the facilities.
The idea has gained political support too. A member of the Standing Committee of the CPPCC Shanghai Committee recently proposed piloting intergenerational co-living in Shanghai’s nursing institutions. This comes as China’s ageing population continues to grow, with over 320 million people aged 60 and above by the end of 2025—a figure expected to exceed 400 million by 2035.
Surveys suggest the model benefits both sides. Among young participants, 86% reported a stronger sense of social responsibility, while 72% said their interpersonal skills improved. The rise of intergenerational co-living offers young people cheaper housing while addressing loneliness among the elderly. With more cities exploring these programs, the model could become a long-term solution as China’s ageing population expands. For now, participants like Lin Xiaoyu show how small contributions can create meaningful connections across generations.
