Story perspectives

China's Seniors: Battling Internet Addiction and Isolation

2/12/2026

Summary

Story summary

China’s elderly population is increasingly showing signs of internet addiction, driven by loneliness and social disengagement.
Experts urge family support and stronger fraud prevention to protect seniors from online scams.
A resident notes his 70-year-old father, who moved in after his mother’s death, spending time and money on live-streaming.
Many seniors feel marginalized online, turning to shopping and gaming, with 54% of those aged 60+ online by December 2025.

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Story summary

China’s elderly population is increasingly showing signs of internet addiction, driven by loneliness and social disengagement.
Experts urge family support and stronger fraud prevention to protect seniors from online scams.
A resident notes his 70-year-old father, who moved in after his mother’s death, spending time and money on live-streaming.
Many seniors feel marginalized online, turning to shopping and gaming, with 54% of those aged 60+ online by December 2025.