Caring for ageing parents in India
Being near ageing parents is one of the main reasons NRIs move back. Here's how to plan their health cover, care, money and paperwork, so you're ready before a crisis.
The short version
Cover and a plan
- A good health policy, plus the free government cover for everyone 70 or older
- A family doctor and a hospital nearby
- Emergency contacts and medical records in one place
Options that suit them
- Help at home, from a cook or driver to trained nursing
- Senior living communities, with care on site
- Day-care and elder-care services in big cities
Before it's urgent
- Wills and nominations on every account
- A power of attorney, if they want one
- Pensions and life certificates kept up to date
Health cover for parents
| Option | What it gives | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| A private health policy | Cover for hospital stays, chosen by amount | No upper age limit since 2024, but premiums are high and co-payment is common over 60 |
| Ayushman Bharat for 70 and over | Free cover of ₹5 lakh a year per family at listed hospitals | For everyone aged 70 or more, whatever their income; enrol with Aadhaar |
| Government or ex-employer schemes | Cover for retired government and some company staff | May have to choose between these and Ayushman Bharat |
| A super top-up | Extra cover above a set amount | Cheaper way to add a large amount on top |
Buy parents' cover early: waiting periods for existing illnesses can be up to 3 years.
Care options
- They're healthy and independentLive nearby rather than together, if everyone prefers. Set up help at home, a phone-based emergency service and regular check-ups.
- They need some daily helpA trained caregiver or day-time attendant at home; elder-care companies in big cities arrange and replace staff.
- They need nursing or medical careHome nursing services, or a senior living community with nursing and a clinic on site.
- They live in another cityConsider moving them closer, or a senior community near you. Long-distance care is hard to run.
Money and paperwork
- Wills and nominations: make sure each parent has a will, and every bank account, deposit and investment has a nominee. See Wills across countries.
- Pensions: pensioners must submit a life certificate each year, usually in November. It can be done online (Jeevan Pramaan) or at home through some banks.
- Savings for them: the Senior Citizens' Savings Scheme and bank deposits for seniors pay higher interest; keep enough easy to reach for medical bills.
- Tax: you can deduct their health insurance premiums (up to ₹50,000 a year for parents over 60) only under the old tax regime.
- Protect them from fraud: phone and online scams often target older people. Set up alerts on their accounts and talk to them about common tricks.
- Know the law: the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act lets parents who can't support themselves claim maintenance from their children.
Questions
Is health insurance available for parents over 70?
Yes. Since 2024 insurers can't refuse cover because of age, though premiums are high and co-payment is common. Everyone aged 70 or more can also get free government cover of ₹5 lakh a year under Ayushman Bharat.
What are senior living communities in India like?
Gated communities designed for older people, with safe homes, dining, activities, medical care on site and emergency help. They exist in most big cities, from independent living to assisted care.
How do I find reliable help at home?
Elder-care companies in big cities provide trained caregivers and nurses and replace them if needed. Check references, get police verification for anyone you hire directly, and keep a written agreement.
Should my parents move in with us?
It depends on the family. Many returnees live in the same building or nearby: close enough to help, with privacy for both.
What paperwork should my parents have ready?
A will, nominees on all accounts, health insurance papers, medical records, a list of their accounts and passwords, and a power of attorney if they want someone to act for them.