Why Indias Elders Need More Than Just Shelter

A few days back, I came across a heart-wrenching story. Over 100 elderly citizens were rescued from an unregistered old age home in Noida—crammed into just 13 rooms, surviving in unhygienic, unsafe conditions. Some were abandoned, others ill, and many simply had nowhere else to go.
As someone who works every day to create spaces where seniors can live with dignity, this story shook me. And it reminded me, once again, why Umang Living exists.

India is home to over 138 million senior citizens. That number will cross 300 million by 2050. And yet, in the world's oldest civilization—where we traditionally revere our elders—millions grow old in silence, isolation, and often, despair.

Many of them have spent their lives building families, careers, communities. But in their most vulnerable years, they find themselves without support—physically, emotionally, or financially.Some are cared for by families. But many are not. They are alone, sometimes neglected, often forgotten. And worse—when they do reach out for help, we give them “shelter” instead of homes. We give them four walls, but not warmth. A bed, but not belonging.

This is not just a housing problem — It's a human problem

The issue is larger than the Noida shelter. The story is repeated across the country—in rundown buildings in Bihar, in cramped NGO-run facilities in Uttar Pradesh, in overcrowded old age homes in parts of Delhi. In states like Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Jharkhand, and Assam, infrastructure for elderly care is practically non-existent.

According to HelpAge India, 1 in 2 elderly persons feels neglected. Many suffer chronic illness, lack of mobility, and mental health issues—often with no one to talk to, nowhere to go.
Meanwhile, India has only about 1,200 registered old age homes, many of which are overcrowded, underfunded, or unregulated.
Is this the future we want for our parents? For ourselves?

We Must Reimagine Aging in India

At Umang Living, we don’t believe aging should mean retreating from life. We believe it should be a new chapter—one filled with connection, care, and comfort.
This is why we are building communities, not just homes. Spaces where seniors are not just accommodated—they’re celebrated. Where they’re not dependent—but independent, supported by thoughtful services and vibrant social lives.

What does dignified retirement living look like?

• Private, clean spaces designed for comfort
• Round-the-clock healthcare support
• Nutritious food that tastes like home
• Friendships and purpose
• Freedom, security, and peace of mind

And most of all—respect.

Because aging is not a burden. It is a badge of life lived, lessons earned, and love given.

We can, and must, do better

Most importantly, we need to replace pity with purpose. The elderly don’t need our sympathy, they need support systems. They need homes designed with care—and communities built on compassion.

Let us make sure that what happened in Noida never happens again.

(The author is Founder CEO of Umang Living)