6 Retirement Plans for Indians Who Won't Live With Their Kids

8. Healthcare planning and long-term care: budgeting for rising medical costs

Healthcare matters a great deal to independent retirees. Medical costs in India show strong upward pressure; some sources cite medical inflation in the double digits, around 12–14% in recent analysis (Belong). That is why a separate healthcare reserve is non-negotiable. Plan for regular premium renewals, and consider top-up or critical-illness covers that span common aged-related conditions. For many households, aim to keep roughly 15–25% of retirement spending flexible for health needs, and keep these funds in liquid instruments. Also think about care logistics: whether family members will help, if you prefer in-home care, or if assisted-living options might be needed. Early conversations about these choices make later decisions less stressful.