Mumbai is set to get India’s first dedicated hospital for geriatric care in Mazgaon. Aga Khan Health Services India plans to develop the facility on a one-acre plot in the area. The organisation has already purchased the land and plans to redevelop the existing Phillips quarters to make way for the hospital.
However, the project’s formalities are still being finalised, and the organisation will soon begin the process of obtaining the necessary construction permissions.
Hospital to Begin with 160 Beds
The proposed hospital will initially have 160 beds. The facility will later expand its capacity to 250 beds, allowing it to cater to a larger number of elderly patients.
The hospital will focus specifically on the healthcare needs of senior citizens. Unlike conventional hospitals, it will provide specialised services that address the complex medical and recovery requirements associated with ageing.
Focus on Longer Recovery and Continued Care
Elderly patients often need more time to recover from illnesses, surgeries and other medical conditions. Therefore, the new facility will include a dedicated post-operative recovery unit.
Moreover, the hospital plans to establish systems that will allow healthcare professionals to continue supporting patients after they leave the hospital. This approach will help provide ongoing care at home during the recovery period.
As per the Hindustan Times, around 70% of geriatric patients have chronic health conditions, while many existing hospitals are not specifically designed to meet the needs of elderly patients.
Growing Need for Geriatric Healthcare
India’s elderly population continues to grow, creating a greater need for specialised geriatric services. According to Aga Khan Health Services, the country could have one senior citizen for every five people by 2050.
At the same time, advances in healthcare and improved access to medicines are helping people live longer. Consequently, healthcare systems must prepare for the increasing demand for age-specific medical services.
Shortage of Geriatric Specialists
The country also faces a limited number of doctors who specialise in geriatric medicine. This shortage makes it more important to develop dedicated facilities where medical professionals can focus on the specific needs of older adults.
Experts have also highlighted the need for comprehensive care that goes beyond physical health. For instance, specialists working with senior citizens have pointed to the importance of addressing mental health concerns such as depression and anxiety among elderly patients.
A Step Towards Specialised Elderly Care
The proposed Mazgaon hospital will introduce a dedicated model of healthcare for senior citizens in India. By combining specialised treatment, longer recovery support, post-operative care and assistance after discharge, the facility aims to address several gaps in existing geriatric healthcare.
Once completed, the hospital could also help strengthen the focus on specialised elderly care as India’s ageing population grows.