Viral: Flying drones and live-streaming at 82 - the story of “hardcore grandma”

In eastern China, an 82-year-old grandmother is doing something amazing. Dai Shuying, called the “hardcore grandma,” is learning to fly agricultural drones and even selling her farm products online. People are loving her story because it shows you can try new things and succeed, no matter your age.

From village roots to modern farming

As reported by the South China Morning Post, Dai Shuying was born in 1943 in Laomei Village, Tongcheng, Anhui province. She spent her early years working as a bookkeeper and was one of the few people in her village who could read, write, and do calculations. While raising five children, she stayed in the village with her eldest son and her 40-year-old grandson, Wang Tiantian. Together, they manage over 600 mu, roughly 40 hectares, of farmland.

Although she no longer does heavy physical work, Dai keeps herself active. Her technology journey started when her grandson brought home a large agricultural drone. Curious, she asked him to teach her how to operate it.

Learning drones at 80

Under her grandson’s guidance, Dai quickly mastered the drone. She learned to lift the 15-kilo batteries, unfold the drone, load fertilizer, and even handle take-offs herself. She explained, as quoted by the South China Morning Post, “Back then, one person could only treat just over 10 mu (0.67 hectare) in an entire day. With this drone, we can finish all 600 mu in one day. It saves time and effort.”

To share their daily life, Wang started a short video account called “Old Farmer, Gratefully Loved.” The videos show Dai flying drones and their light-hearted moments, attracting over 210,000 followers on Douyin, as reported by the South China Morning Post.

From farm to online business

The duo later expanded into live-streaming to sell their home-grown rice, cooking oil, and other products. Dai even learned to operate the live-streaming equipment herself. Wang said, “Grandma learns to read and write quickly, but the most important thing is patience.”

As mentioned in the report, Dai shared her happiness, saying, “Life is very happy now. My children are by my side, I enjoy farming, and our income is better than before. At over 80 years of age, being able to see so much of the world is the best part.”

Admiration online

Dai’s story has touched many people online. Fans call her a “hardcore grandma.” One commented, “I absolutely love this grandma. She can do everything!” Another added, “Wishing grandma good health and a long life!”

Dai Shuying’s journey is a reminder that learning and embracing new technology is possible at any age. Her story combines family, innovation, and determination in a simple and inspiring way.
Thumb image: Canva (for representative purposes only)