When families explore senior living, the first thing they want to know is the cost of retirement homes in India. But cost is not just one number. Two retirement homes may look similar, yet the final bill can change based on meals, housekeeping, medical support, and extra services.
So, during a facility visit, don’t focus only on the room and ambience. Ask clear questions about pricing. It will help you compare options properly and avoid surprises later.
Below is a simple list of questions you can carry to any visit.
What is the full breakdown of cost?
Start by asking for a clear, item-wise breakup.
Ask:
- What is the monthly fee?
- What is included in that monthly fee?
- Is there an admission fee or registration fee?
- Is there a refundable security deposit?
- Is the cost different for a single resident and a couple?
- How often do prices increase (yearly or otherwise)?
Will you give an agreement with written terms and costs?
A reliable retirement home will give you a written agreement. Do not depend on verbal statements.
Ask:
- Will you provide an agreement before admission?
- Does it mention all fees and services clearly?
- Does it mention what is included and what is extra?
- What is the notice period if we want to discontinue?
- Are there any penalties for early exit?
- When and how will the deposit be refunded?
Tip: Ensure refund rules and price increase terms are written, not “discussed.”
Are meals included in the package?
Meals are a major part of the cost of retirement homes in India, and this is where add-ons often appear.
Ask:
- How many meals are included per day (breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks)?
- Are meals served at fixed times?
- Is room service available if someone is unwell?
- Are special diets included (diabetic/low salt/soft diet)?
- Are fruits, tea, and evening snacks included or charged extra?
Tip: Ask for a weekly menu and check food quality during the visit.
Are housekeeping services included? What exactly is covered?
Many places say “housekeeping included,” but the details vary.
Ask:
- Is room cleaning done daily?
- Is bathroom cleaning included?
- Is laundry included? If yes, how many clothes per week?
- Are bedsheets and towels provided and changed regularly?
- Is deep cleaning included, or is it paid?
Tip: Ask for the housekeeping schedule. It tells you how consistent the service is.
Are community events and activities included?
Activities help seniors stay active and socially connected. But sometimes outings and special events cost extra.
Ask:
- Are daily activities included in the monthly package?
- Are yoga, games, hobby sessions, or group gatherings included?
- Are festivals and celebrations included?
- Are outings included, or charged separately?
- Is transportation for outings included?
Tip: Ask to see the activity calendar for the month.
What medical support is included, and what is extra?
Medical support is a key cost factor. Ask clearly, even if your parent is healthy today.
Ask:
- Is there a nurse on-site? Is it available 24/7?
- Are routine health checks included?
- Are doctor consultations included or charged per visit?
- What happens in an emergency at night?
- Is ambulance support available? Is it charged?
- Is physiotherapy included or paid per session?
Tip: Ask if assisted living is a separate plan with a different fee.
What services are extra, and how are they priced?
This section helps you understand the real monthly spend.
Ask:
- What are the most common extra charges residents usually pay?
- Is a personal attendant available? What is the cost?
- Are medicines arranged by the facility? Is there a service fee?
- Are salon/spa services paid separately?
- Are repairs inside the room included or billed separately?
Tip: Ask for a printed list of add-on services and their prices.
What happens if care needs increase later?
Even if your parent is independent now, needs may change with time.
Hence, you must check and confirm:
- If care needs increase, will the monthly fee increase?
- Do you shift residents into a higher care plan?
- Can they stay in the same room with added support?
- Do you offer dementia or memory support if needed?
Conclusion
The cost of retirement homes in India depends on many small details. A facility that looks affordable at first can become expensive if meals, housekeeping, activities, and medical support are charged separately. That is why a visit should include cost-related questions and not just a basic tour. Note down these important questions mentioned above and clarify the same with the retirement home of your choice during the visit.
