An elderly resident in Hangzhou alearns about an AI companion robot dog. [Photo/WeChat account: jgfzsjq]

A social experiment exploring how AI agents can support elderly people has been launched in Shangcheng district, Hangzhou, offering participants free access to intelligent devices and personalized services.

Among the participants is 82-year-old Wu Guokun, who lives alone and now spends time playing chess with an AI-powered robot and chatting with another AI companion. Wu said the devices have added more activities to his daily life and helped ease feelings of loneliness.

The project, first launched in Beijing in 2025, plans to deploy AI products in 300 to 500 households nationwide. Participating families will receive the devices and related services free of charge, while researchers conduct long-term assessments and refine the technology based on users' needs and feedback.

Hangzhou has been promoting the integration of AI into elderly care services. Local authorities said the project will explore personalized smart elderly care while emphasizing safety standards and sustainable service models.

Researchers also stressed the importance of balancing technological innovation with ethics, dignity and human-centered care.

An elderly resident in Hangzhou plays Chinese chess with an AI-powered chess robot. [Photo/WeChat account: jgfzsjq]