Would you pay someone for their non-sexual company?

My MIL is a recently divorced 55 year old. She is tired of all the expectations that come with dating. She just wants to have enjoyable company for dinner once in a while. She travels a lot and is often in a different city every month, so it's pretty difficult to have a serious, long-term relationship. She's really just looking for company to cure her loneliness.

I suggested she should find people to keep her company (e.g., a male or female who is intelligent, funny, and kind) by paying them (e.g., $50/hr for 2-hr dinner). She would of course pay for their meal as well.

What do you guys think about this? Is it normal? Is it something you would do? Can you relate to her?