Beyond Basic Care: What Makes Luxury Assisted Living Communities in India Different?

India is known for its joint-family culture. Over the period, the country is now seeing the rise of nuclear families, global careers, and changing social dynamics, which have created a new demand. The demand is now for luxury assisted living communities that honor Indian values while embracing modern comfort. In a country where multigenerational homes were once the norm, India is witnessing a significant transformation in senior living.

These communities go beyond mere care, offering a lifestyle that combines comfort, convenience, and exclusivity. But what exactly sets luxury assisted living apart in India? To understand this, let’s dive deep into the need for this transformation.

The Changing Face of Indian Senior Care

Assisted living or senior living has been looked at as a “taboo” in India. Because of their cultural values, Indians never looked at senior living as an option. However, the scenario is changing. With the growing number of nuclear families and the trend of exploring careers abroad, assisted living is no more looked down.

According to a 2023 CII report, India's elderly population is expected to reach 194 million by 2031. More importantly, about 15% of urban seniors actively seek premium retirement living options – a stark contrast to the previous generation's choices. The senior citizens are now looking to make their post-retirement living a “golden years”.

This shift represents an opportunity and focuses on the vacuum of how we provide our senior citizens better care and support. Is India ready for the aging population?

What Modern Indian Seniors Want

India is often called for its “youthful demographics”. But, it not no exception to this phenomenon of population ageing. While still relatively young with only 11% of its populace over 60, the sheer scale of India’s population means this translates to a staggering 156.7 million elderly citizens as of 2024, as per data by ASLI. Statistically, India has the second highest number of senior population in the world. The first one is China, with a 292.2mn senior population in 2024.

With a large population comes larger expectations. The expectations and preferences of Indian seniors have evolved significantly over the past decade. Today's elderly population, particularly from urban areas, seeks living spaces that offer both independence and community engagement. These seniors, often well-traveled and globally exposed, look for environments that respect their cultural roots while providing modern conveniences.

A study reveals that around 73% of urban Indian seniors prioritize healthcare accessibility, while 65% emphasize the importance of cultural and spiritual activities in their daily lives. This demographic shift reflects a broader change in how Indian seniors view their retirement years – not as a time of withdrawal, but as an opportunity for active, meaningful living.

The modern Indian senior citizen values:

-??????? A balance of privacy and community interaction

-??????? Access to both traditional and modern healthcare

-??????? Spaces for cultural and spiritual practices

-??????? Opportunities for lifelong learning and skill development

-??????? Technology integration for family connectivity

-??????? Active engagement in community decisions

-??????? Nutritious meals that cater to regional preferences

-??????? Green spaces for physical activity and relaxation

According to ASSI (Association of Senior Living India), there's been a 40% increase in inquiries for luxury senior living spaces from upper-middle-class families in metropolitan cities. This trend indicates a growing acceptance of community living among India's elderly population, particularly when it aligns with their cultural values and lifestyle preferences.

Modern Healthcare Meets Ayurveda

According to ASSOCHAM's Healthcare Report 2023, 72% of affluent Indian seniors prefer facilities that combine modern medicine with traditional healing practices. Today's luxury communities offer:

-??????? Integrated Ayurvedic wellness centers

-??????? Modern diagnostic facilities

-??????? 24/7 healthcare with specialist doctors

-??????? Telemedicine facilities for international consultations

Community Engagement

Luxury assisted living communities in India are designed to resemble high-end resorts rather than traditional care facilities.

According to a 2022 report by ANAROCK, over 60% of seniors opting for luxury assisted living prioritize access to premium amenities. These facilities are often located in serene environments, away from the hustle and bustle of cities, yet within easy reach of urban conveniences. This blend of tranquillity and accessibility is a hallmark of luxury senior living.

-??????? Card rooms for socialising

-??????? Modern gyms with trained elderly-care specialists

-??????? Cinema halls screening both Indian and international films

-??????? Gardens with traditional Indian herbs and flowers

The Investment Perspective

The senior living sector in India presents a compelling investment landscape with distinct market segmentation. Knight Frank Senior Living Report 2023 reveals a significant shift in market dynamics, with a 45% surge in willingness to invest in premium senior care facilities. The report indicates that tier-2 cities are emerging as preferred locations for senior living projects due to lower land costs and operating expenses, offering investors better margins.

Currently, South India leads with 65% of senior living projects, followed by West India at 25%, presenting geographical diversification opportunities for investors, a JLL report pointed out.

Stonecraft's Vision: Where Tradition Meets Innovation

Stonecraft Group's upcoming luxury senior living project in Hyderabad stands as a testament to this evolution. Their approach uniquely blends Indian values with world-class amenities. The assisted living project is located in a peaceful and serene environment, providing assisted living residences with exceptional convenience and access to key areas. Just 3 km away from Yadagiri temple in Hyderabad, offering easy access for spiritual retreats.

Yadagirigutta has been carefully chosen as the site for this project due to its proximity to world-class medical facilities, including AIIMS, and its spiritual and cultural significance. Known for its moderate climate and cosmopolitan atmosphere, Hyderabad offers a uniquely supportive environment for senior living.

Distinctive Features

-??????? Architecture incorporating Vastu principles

-??????? India's largest Miyawaki forest for therapeutic walks

-??????? Sustainable design using traditional materials like CSEB

-??????? Solar-powered facilities reducing environmental impact

-??????? Advanced security systems with 24/7 monitoring

Healthcare Excellence

-??????? Integrated Ayurvedic and modern medical facilities

-??????? Specialized physiotherapy center

-??????? Emergency response system

-??????? Regular health check-ups and preventive care

Family Integration

-??????? Guest suites for visiting family members

-??????? Family dining areas for celebrations

-??????? Digital connectivity centers for staying in touch

-??????? Regular family engagement programs

Conclusion

The evolution of luxury senior living in India represents more than just a change in housing preferences – it's a reflection of how modern Indian seniors are redefining their golden years. These communities offer a perfect blend of traditional values and contemporary lifestyle, ensuring that seniors can age gracefully while staying true to their cultural roots.

Southern India has emerged as the epicentre of the country's senior living boom. The southern states, long at the forefront of India's development trajectory, are experiencing accelerated population aging due to sustained lower fertility and mortality rates. Secondly, these regions are home to a larger proportion of parents whose children are Non-Resident Indians (NRIs). These demographic and cultural factors have cultivated a fertile ground for the senior living sector to flourish.

Taking ahead the demand from South India, Stonecraft Group has launched an Assisted Living project with world-class amenities in Hyderabad’s Yadagirigutta. Strategically located near Yadagiri temple and the upcoming AIIMS hospital, this senior living place is a game changer.

For more information, visit: www.stonecraftgroup.com or Call: +91 9702955555