SHAHGHAI: Shanghai’s Ikea has become an unconventional dating hotspot for the city’s elderly population. More than a decade since Ikea attempted to discourage their weekly gatherings, hundreds of pensioners now turn the store’s cafeteria into a lively matchmaking venue every Tuesday of the week.
These elderly lovebirds, facing the challenges of empty nests and changing social structures as China’s population ages, have transformed Ikea into an unexpected dating site. Rejecting the classic Swedish meatballs, they bring their own tea, snacks, and even booze, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of a high school cafeteria.
Among the over 297 million people aged 60 or more in China, a quarter are single. As many elderly individuals live on their own due to changing family structures, loneliness becomes a prevalent issue. The Ikea gathering, ongoing for more than a decade, offers them a chance to socialize, flirt, and potentially find love.
ALSO READ: China’s Shanghai Set to Record its Chilliest December in Four Decades
Initially met with resistance from Ikea, attempts to disband the group included added security, roped-off seating, and signs urging them to leave. However, tensions have since cooled, and Ikea now acknowledges the elderly’s need for care and interaction, providing a welcoming space.
While Ikea remains a popular spot for the elderly to seek companionship, it is not the sole venue in the city. Some participants spend Tuesdays at Ikea and head to People’s Park on weekends, managing their “tight schedules.” The success rate of finding love in these unconventional places is uncertain, with participants acknowledging the mix of good and bad individuals. Despite challenges, some individuals have found companionship, proving that love knows no age limits.
