Welfare center opens new path for senior citizens

Every month, they receive 100 yuan ($14) or 200 yuan, depending on which areas, villages or towns they are from.

As most of the residents follow Tibetan Buddhism and some have mobility problems, a building with prayer wheels was built for them to practice Buddhist devotions nearby, instead of going far to temples.

"We not only care for the elders' physical health, but also their spiritual needs," Gyayang, one of the four caretakers of the center, said.

From construction to operation, all the expenses are covered by the local government.

Sitting on benches to chat in groups, bathing in warm sunshine and spinning prayer wheels, these have become the normal daily activities of the elders who were helpless in the past.