8 in 10 Indians Say They Need Help Caring for Ageing Parents, Reveals Gen S Life Survey

• 72% of respondents cited their parents’ health as their biggest concern
• 68% are worried about parents’ loneliness and social isolation
• 62% of senior parents now live independently in cities, across the country, or abroad
• Only 2% of seniors currently live in senior care centres
• 54% of adult children worry about their parents every single day
• 46% provide regular financial support, while 26% contribute occasionally

India, 15th September 2025: Gen S Life, a lifestyle app for India’s 60+ community has unveiled findings from a multi-city survey that captures the emotional and practical realities of caring for ageing parents. Conducted with over 1,000 respondents across Tier 1 & 2 cities, the study provides a rare lens into how families are navigating love, distance, finances, and responsibility.

The survey reveals that 72% of respondents identified their parents’ health as their primary concern, followed closely by 68% who cited loneliness as a pressing issue. Safety (42%), social life (39%) and financial stability (37%) were also highlighted as secondary concerns. The findings underline that health and emotional wellbeing are now seen as equally urgent priorities in ageing care.

Living arrangements of parents also reflect shifting social structures. 62% of senior parents live independently, either in the same city, in another part of the country, or abroad; while only 2% reside in senior care facilities. This growing physical distance often leaves adult children anxious, with 54% admitting they worry about their parents daily, especially during working hours.

Caregiving, however, is not only emotional but also financial. The survey found that 46% of respondents regularly contribute to their parents’ expenses, while another 26% provide occasional support. Yet, despite these contributions, guilt persists: 57% said they feel they are not doing enough, revealing the hidden emotional cost of caregiving.

Perhaps the most telling finding is that 8 in 10 respondents said they would welcome structured caregiving support if it were reliable and affordable, with many willing to pay for such services. This highlights the readiness of Indian families to adopt organised care solutions that balance love with practical support.

Commenting on the findings, Meenakshi Menon, Founder, Gen S Life, said, “These numbers tell a story of love, responsibility, and worry that millions of Indians live with every day. Health and loneliness are not abstract issues; they are real challenges faced by parents and constant sources of anxiety for children. The fact that eight out of ten people are ready to embrace structured care shows a powerful shift where families are seeking help not because they care less, but because they want to care better.”

The study also sheds light on urban-rural differences. In metropolitan cities, respondents reported higher concerns around parents’ loneliness (71%), while smaller towns highlighted health emergencies (69%) as the primary fear. Among the respondents, the distance amplified guilt, with 63% saying they worry their parents are not truly happy despite financial support.

Through this research, Gen S Life reaffirms its commitment to India’s senior community and their caregivers. By building a network of healthcare, safety, engagement, and companionship services, the platform is working to address both the practical and emotional dimensions of ageing care. With accessible options like the Gen S Life Silver Plan at ₹990 per year and the Gold Plan at ₹4,900 per year, Gen S Life aims to make structured caregiving support affordable and adaptable to the needs of every family.

At its heart, the message is simple: caring for parents is not only about responsibility; it is about love, dignity, and connection. Gen S Life is committed to helping families transform their silent worries into active care, ensuring that seniors live with comfort, confidence, and the companionship they deserve.

Gen S Life conducted a nationwide online survey among caregivers aged 30-45 to understand the key concerns children face regarding their ageing parents. In addition, Gen S Life engaged directly with employees from various organisations who participated in the survey to gain deeper insights. Gen S Life is committed to making it easier for caregivers to support their ageing parents. To achieve this, the brand is keen to regularly engage with organisations and their employees to better understand their needs and challenges. Recognising the unique pressures faced by the sandwich generation, Gen S Life aims to reassure them that they are not alone. The brand seeks to shift the parent-child dynamic from being transactional to one rooted in love, care, and genuine connection.