The Rise of Rental Companions

The Rise of "Children for Rent" in Chiang Mai

A recent post on social media caught the attention of many, highlighting a unique service called “Children for Rent” launched by Buddy Home Care. This innovative service is aimed at seniors who need companionship or assistance with daily tasks such as visiting the doctor, shopping, or running errands. The service charges 350 baht per hour and is currently available in Chiang Mai. The initiative has gained significant traction, with the page's followers growing from 1,000 to 4,000 since its launch in June, and over 50 inquiries received.

The idea behind this service stems from Tossawat Boonmar, the general manager of Buddy Home Care, a social enterprise focused on in-home senior care. His motivation came from his personal experience with his grandmother, whom he cared for after graduation. He accompanied her to the hospital, helped with errands, and even visited the temple for her. Her passing three years ago due to cancer left a deep impact on him, shaping his perspective on elderly care.

During his university years, Tossawat volunteered with Buddy Home Care, which exposed him to the harsh realities faced by many elderly individuals in urban areas. Many live in poverty, without family support, and struggle to access state services. Private care centers are often too expensive, creating a gap in the market that Tossawat sought to fill.

He noticed a communication breakdown in modern families, where people tend to isolate themselves after work, leading to fewer interactions. With a bachelor’s degree in business management, Tossawat joined Buddy Home Care in 2019, just before the pandemic. He now oversees the “child for rent” service, which provides hourly support for seniors needing help with daily activities.

Tossawat mentioned that half of his senior customers seek companionship, while others want to stay connected with technology, especially social media. These interactions often involve sharing stories about their past, including how they survived World War II, and in return, they learn about the younger generation’s experiences. This exchange creates a kind of human library, offering insights into different eras and perspectives.

As Thailand transitions into an aged society, with more than 28% of the population expected to be 60 or older by 2033, the need for innovative solutions like “children for rent” becomes increasingly relevant. Assoc Prof Bhubate Samutachak, a lecturer at Mahidol University, highlighted the alarming trend of falling birth rates and the challenges associated with an aging population.

According to a special article in the Thai Health Report, key reasons for living child-free include women's advancements in rights, high living costs, work-life balance, and social precarity. These factors contribute to the decision of many couples to avoid having children. The report also notes that Thailand's fertility rate dropped to 1.1 in 2023, the second lowest in Southeast Asia.

Assoc Prof Bhubate emphasized the need for the government to make senior care services more affordable, suggesting support for social enterprises targeting middle and low-tier elderly customers. He also recommended adopting different policies, such as co-payment and full subsidies for various segments of the elderly population.

The silver economy, driven by the demographic shift towards an aging population, is gaining momentum. According to a study by the Thailand Development Research Institute, elderly consumer spending is projected to rise significantly in the coming years. However, the reality for many Thai seniors is far from luxurious, with average monthly incomes below the national minimum wage.

In conclusion, the “children for rent” service represents a new wave of businesses emerging in response to Thailand's demographic changes. As the country continues to age, innovative solutions will be crucial in addressing the needs of the elderly population. The focus should remain on making senior care accessible and affordable, ensuring that all members of society can enjoy a dignified life.