ASLI-PWC Survey Calls for Multi-Pronged Strategy on India’s 347 Million Seniors

New Delhi, September 18, 2025: As India’s senior population heads to over 347 million by 2050, this transformation is reshaping care needs for seniors who increasingly need wellness focused lifecare and lifestyle solutions. As the ageing population grows, the senior care sector is coming into focus as states realise the inevitability of addressing evolving needs of this cohort. To facilitate dialogue, knowledge exchange, and collaboration among key stakeholders, ASLI organised the 6th ASLI Ageing Fest, with PwC as Knowledge Partner and JLL as Research Partner, providing a platform to address the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of senior care

The latest PwC-ASLI survey released during the 6th ASLI Ageing Fest highlights key growth drivers, emerging service models, and critical systemic challenges shaping the sector’s trajectory. The report advocates for a multi-faceted approach emphasizing innovation, workforce development, financial solutions, regulatory reform, and enabling infrastructure to meet the nuanced needs of India’s aging populace at scale.

Rajit Mehta, Chairman, ASLI, said: “The aspirations of seniors are evolving very rapidly and we need to empower them with choice, dignity, and seamless care. The market is scaling fast, embracing tech, specialized care, and integrated living. Technology in the Indian context is not an option but an imperative that will help scale up, ensure quality and efficiency”

Dr Rana Mehta, PwC India Partner & Leader–Health Advisory, stated: “The future of senior care in India is poised for a major transformation—thanks to new care models, technology and a skilled workforce. But for this to truly succeed, we need to solve for affordable insurance, clear regulations, and greater investment in innovation, from home care to assisted living. Only then can we build a system with the trust, scale, and sustainability our seniors deserve.” Insights from the recent PwC-ASLI survey underscore overwhelming optimism within the senior care ecosystem, with 83% of stakeholders expressing high confidence over the next 15 years. Principal growth drivers signal a paradigm shift: increased service acceptability (83 per cent), rising awareness (62.5 per cent), and improved affordability (58 per cent).

Service diversification is a key trend. Many providers indicate plans to expand into Assisted Living (75 per cent), Home Care (50 per cent), Nursing Care (42 per cent), Mental Engagement services (42 per cent), and Telehealth solutions (37.5 per cent). Mental health and rehabilitation services are gaining importance, supported by rising insurance coverage.

Technology will amplify this growth trajectory. Tech-enabled care, including remote monitoring, fall detection, and tele-rehabilitation, enable complex care delivery at home. Insurance coverage for seniors is critical for sustainable care expansion. As life expectancy increases and healthcare costs rise, elderly insurance products reduce financial risk and improve access to quality services.

Workforce capability and quality assurance are critical. Two-thirds of respondents emphasize the importance of ongoing staff development and the implementation of advanced care standards, while more than half plan to integrate state-of-the-art technologies and establish comprehensive patient feedback systems.

From a regulatory perspective, there is a palpable call for reform. Nearly 70 per cent of stakeholders advocate for enhanced funding and novel regulatory frameworks, with half favoring public-private partnerships to accelerate infrastructure scaling and service innovation. Current regulatory perceptions are mixed, with only 21 per cent rating it favorably, highlighting the need for clear governance and standardized accreditation mechanisms.

Supply-demand dynamics reveal capacity constraints. Forty-two per cent of providers foresee persistent or widening gaps, highlighting the sector’s nascency and the need for rapid capacity expansion.

Key priorities include:

• Scaling affordable, diverse senior care models, including dementia and palliative services
• Boosting workforce development in geriatrics and digital skills
• Standardizing regulations and accreditation for quality and investment
• Encouraging public-private partnerships and infrastructure funding
• Accelerating digital integration for better care and efficiency

The PwC-ASLI survey encapsulates a sector poised for transformational growth yet mindful of foundational challenges. With demographic pressures mounting and consumer awareness rising, coordinated efforts by policymakers, investors, and providers can build an inclusive, scalable ecosystem that allows seniors to age with dignity and independence.

The 6th ASLI Ageing Fest is strengthened by the participation of leading organisations shaping the future of senior care and wellness in India. RTR – Ready to Retire, incubated by Bajaj Capital is trusted and experienced Partner in simplifying retirement planning. Paranjape Schemes brings over 25 years of experience in senior housing. Bridge Health, Heyday, Cradle of Life, Emoha, and Alphind represent a new wave of senior care providers focused on comfort, dignity, and holistic well-being. Their collective presence reflects a united commitment to reimagining ageing and building a more supportive ecosystem for seniors in today’s India.