Hyderabad, a city historically recognized for its IT hubs and real estate growth, is now undergoing a significant transformation in its burgeoning senior-living sector. This shift is fueled by rising life expectancies, the decline of joint-family systems, and a gradual cultural shift towards organized elderly care, positioning Hyderabad as one of India’s most dynamic senior-care markets. Currently, 8.5 percent of Telangana’s population is over 60, with projections suggesting this figure could reach 11 percent by 2036. As this demographic change accelerates, retirement communities are proliferating on the outskirts of Hyderabad, prompting an urgent discussion about whether these facilities genuinely offer ‘international standards’ or merely use the term for marketing purposes.
One such facility is PP Reddy Retirement Homes, situated in Mallapur near Balapur, which claims to be Hyderabad’s first international-standard senior community. This facility operates within a fragmented and rapidly evolving market. Government data indicates only 19 registered senior citizen homes in Telangana, yet online resources reveal over a dozen additional active facilities in Hyderabad. The actual number is likely even higher, as new facilities continue to emerge in developing areas like Shamirpet, Mokila, Kompally, and Tellapur. Major national entities such as Ashiana, Columbia Pacific, Athulya, and Annabhau Sathe have established large communities covering 10 to 20 acres, featuring modern geriatric designs, dementia-care areas, and tele-ICU services.
In contrast, PP Reddy Home is notable more for its approach than its size. While its four-acre campus is tranquil, it is relatively modest compared to larger senior-living townships. Its emphasis on organic food, in-house dairy farming, and vegetable cultivation reflects a unique ‘farm-to-table wellness model.’ “Nearly 50% of our base cost goes toward providing fresh, healthy food,” co-founder Vamshidhar Reddy stated, highlighting the importance of nutrition for elderly health. The facility offers various accommodation options: shared rooms at Rs24,000/month; single rooms at Rs35,000/month; and assisted living for bedridden patients costing between Rs70,000 and Rs1,00,000/month.
A key strength of the home is its internal medical system, featuring a 24/7 medical unit staffed by an on-site doctor, ten nurses, physiotherapy experts, and additional support staff. Minor health issues can be addressed on-site, decreasing unnecessary hospital visits. However, major medical expenses, such as surgeries, are the responsibility of the residents. The facility claims to have a seven-bed ICU-like unit equipped with ventilators and crash carts. Still, experts argue that any ICU must adhere to strict NABH protocols concerning infection control, specialist supervision, and documented governance, none of which have been publicly disclosed. With a 46% increase in geriatric hospitalizations in Hyderabad over the past five years, transparency in emergency care has become essential.
The management recognizes the operational hurdles, such as staff shortages and rising expectations from families of residents. However, they remain dedicated to their location, which is away from urban congestion. “A senior home cannot operate in the city center. Elders require walking paths, clean air, and open spaces that city centers cannot provide,” Reddy noted. Other facilities share similar views. A representative from Athulya Senior Care in Kukatpally remarked, “We maintain a structured routine that includes activities, pujas, and celebrations, and anyone is welcome to visit and tour our facilities. Engagement is crucial for mental well-being.” Research supports that social activities can reduce depression risk among seniors by nearly 30%.
PP Reddy Home provides various recreational activities, including yoga, festivals, movie screenings, and hobby clubs. However, in comparison to newer communities that implement dementia-friendly designs and geriatric-specialist oversight, its approach is more community-oriented than clinically advanced. Crucially absent from public disclosures are essential performance metrics, such as occupancy rates, clinical audits, resident satisfaction scores, or emergency response data. In a sector that significantly impacts the lives and dignity of vulnerable citizens, this lack of transparency is increasingly concerning. Retirement Homes exemplifies both the potential and inconsistencies of Hyderabad’s senior-care evolution. Its verdant environment, compassionate approach, and medical support appeal to many families. Yet, as the senior-living market in the city matures, bold claims must be substantiated by quantifiable standards.
In this context, transparency rather than attractive brochures will serve as the cornerstone of trust, and affordability requires urgent focus.