Did you know India is witnessing a significant demographic and healthcare shift? The senior citizens population is projected to exceed
347 million by 2050. At the same time, the country is facing rapidly rising medical costs, with high medical inflation that continues to reduce savings and retirement provisions. Against this backdrop, more comprehensive health-insurance plans are now the need of the hour for older adults.
In the sections that follow, we'll dig into common
health insurance myths after age 65 and see how modern senior-citizen plans actually address the real needs of senior citizens.
Top 5 Health Insurance Myths Around Senior Citizen Health Insurance
Health Insurance Myth #1: "Our Family Health Cover is Enough for My Parents.
It's a common assumption that the family health policy you already have will protect everyone, including ageing parents. Unfortunately, that's not always true.
Most family plans come with age limits, lower coverage for older members, and sometimes even restrictions on pre-existing conditions. This means your parents might not get the full protection they deserve.
That's why it's wiser to go for a senior citizen health insurance plan, which provides higher coverage amounts, lifetime renewals and special benefits designed for older adults. It gives your parents the financial security they need without affecting the rest of the family's cover.
Health Insurance Myth #2: "Health Insurance for Seniors Is Too Expensive.
Yes, premiums do go up a bit with age - but that doesn't mean senior health plans are unaffordable. In fact, they often save money in the long run.
With medical inflation growing every year, even one hospitalisation can cost more than a year's premium. Many insurers now also offer discounts, co-payment options and tax benefits that make senior plans more budget-friendly.
Our senior citizen plans even allow you to adjust the premium by choosing a deductible (you pay a small amount, and the rest is covered). This makes health coverage more affordable for you.
Health Insurance Myth #3: I can't Buy Health Insurance for My Ageing Parents Due to Pre-Existing Illnesses
This used to be true years ago, but things have changed. Many insurers, including Reliance General Insurance, now accept individuals with pre-existing conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure.
These conditions are covered after completing a minimal waiting period of usually 2 to 3 years. So even if your parents already have health issues, it's absolutely possible to get them insured. The key is to start early; the sooner you buy, the faster that waiting period ends.
Health Insurance Myth #4: "If My Parents Are Over 65, It's Too Late to Get a Plan.
Not anymore! Earlier, most health plans had a strict age limit. However, many companies now offer
health insurance for parents over 65 or 70, with lifetime renewal options.
For instance, Reliance General's senior citizen plan lets you insure parents up to age 65 and beyond, so you don't have to worry about being "too late." It's never too late to secure your health.
Health Insurance Myth #5: "My Parents Are Healthy - They Don't Need Insurance.
Just because your parents are fit today doesn't mean they'll never need medical help. Having a reliable financial aid to fall back on in case of an emergency always helps reduce any future financial burden.
A good insurance plan ensures that you can focus on your recovery instead of worrying about expenses. Reliance General Insurance's senior health plans also cover day care treatments, AYUSH therapies, ambulance charges and more, providing complete protection, even for minor procedures.
Things to Look For in Senior Citizen Health Plans
Unlimited Coverage
Look for plans that offer high or unlimited sum insured options. Our plans range up to ₹5 crore and include an unlimited SI restoration feature. This ensures you're protected even during extended or multiple hospital stays.
Coverage for Pre-Existing Diseases (PEDs)
Choose a plan that covers existing illnesses after a short waiting period. Our plans typically cover
pre-existing diseases after a 2-3 year waiting period, giving long-term coverage. In addition, we also offer the Change in Pre-Existing Disease add-on, which allows you to reduce the waiting period to 48 months, 24 months or 12 months*.
Daycare Procedures
Modern plans include cashless cover for day care treatments that don't need overnight stays, from cataract surgery to dialysis, reducing out-of-pocket costs.
Future-Proof Services
Pick a plan that evolves with your needs and offers advanced services and covers modern treatment procedures, such as robotic surgeries, lifetime renewability and digital processes. We offer 10,000+ network hospitals, cashless anywhere access, ambulance cover, tele-consultations and global treatment options - truly future-ready protection.
Conclusion
As healthcare costs continue to rise and India's senior population expands, having dedicated health insurance after the age of 65 is essential. With flexible options and features tailored for older adults, our
Senior Citizen Health Insurance is an empowering option.
The sooner you secure a plan, the more prepared you'll be for life's uncertainties. With a wide range and comprehensive coverage of up to ₹5 crores and 20+ add-ons*, zero paperwork and customisable plans, Reliance General Insurance ensures your parents can truly enjoy their golden years with confidence.
FAQs
Can a 70-year-old get health insurance in India?
Yes, absolutely. Reliance General Insurance offers health plans specifically designed for seniors, allowing people above 65 years to remain covered under our policies with lifetime renewals.
What is the Senior Citizen Health Insurance Scheme by the Government of India (2025)?
As of 2025, the government supports senior citizens through schemes such as Ayushman Bharat - Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY) and the Senior Citizens' Health Insurance Scheme (SCHIS). These programs provide cashless hospitalisation and financial aid of up to ₹5 lakhs for senior citizens above the age of 70 years, covering major treatments at hospitals approved in India.