During fieldwork conducted in Shanghai, Mrs Li emerged as the most active older adult at her neighbourhood community eldercare centre. Rather than remaining at home or relying on family for daily companionship, she visits the centre frequently to socialise with other older adults and social-work staff and to participate in crafts, singing and other group activities. The centre has effectively become a second home, offering friendship, emotional support from caregivers and opportunities to maintain her health—benefits that may delay or prevent a future move to a nursing facility. Nevertheless, Mrs Li regards the centre as a “backup" option, suitable mainly for the oldest old or for individuals whose families are unable to provide day-to-day care. In her view, the space is simultaneously homely and unhomely, familiar yet marked by its institutional purpose.