Taking care of elderly parents and grandparents can sometimes become challenging, particularly when they live alone or need medical assistance, shelter or support with everyday activities. To address these concerns, the Central Government is strengthening its senior citizen welfare initiatives through the Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana (AVYAY).

In a recent development, the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment released ₹77.98 crore in financial assistance for 755 projects under the scheme for the quarter ending September 30, 2026.

The initiative focuses on helping older people live with dignity, access essential services and receive assistance when they need it. Here is how senior citizens and their families can understand and access the available facilities.

What Is the Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana?

Launched in 2021, the Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana is an umbrella programme designed to improve the quality of life of senior citizens.

The scheme is administered by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment and brings together several initiatives related to elderly care, healthcare, shelter, assistive devices and active ageing.

Its main objectives include:

• Providing shelter and care to elderly people who need support.

• Improving access to healthcare and rehabilitation facilities.

• Supporting senior citizens who require assistance with daily activities.

• Encouraging independent and active ageing.

• Strengthening services through government agencies, NGOs and local bodies.

The scheme promotes two important ideas: ageing with dignity and ageing in place. The latter means helping elderly people continue living safely in their own homes and communities instead of having to move into institutional care.

Need Help? Save This Senior Citizen Helpline Number

One of the most useful facilities available to elderly citizens is Elderline, the National Helpline for Senior Citizens.

<badge color="success">Toll-free helpline</badge>

<title size="2xl" color="default" tabularNums>14567</title>

Senior citizens can contact this number for:

• Information about government welfare schemes.

• Guidance regarding available support services.

• Emotional support and assistance.

• Help with certain grievances and difficulties.

• Referral to relevant authorities and support organisations.

The helpline is operational in 32 States and Union Territories. According to government information released in September 2026, it had received more than 29 lakh calls since its launch in October 2021.

If an elderly family member needs assistance or does not know which government department to approach, this number can be a useful starting point.

Government-Supported Old Age Homes and Continuous Care Facilities

Under the Integrated Programme for Senior Citizens (IPSrC), a component of AVYAY, financial assistance is provided to eligible organisations for operating facilities for elderly people.

These include:

• Senior Citizen Homes providing accommodation and basic facilities.

• Continuous Care Homes for people requiring more extensive assistance.

• Mobile Medicare Units offering healthcare-related services.

• Physiotherapy clinics.

• Regional Resource and Training Centres.

The government reported that 764 Senior Citizen Homes, 13 Continuous Care Homes, 17 Mobile Medicare Units and three Physiotherapy Clinics were being supported under the programme as of October 2026.

Eligible older people who lack adequate financial support may receive facilities such as accommodation, nutrition, medical care and recreational activities at supported institutions, subject to the scheme's eligibility and admission conditions.

Free Assistive Devices for Eligible Senior Citizens

Another important initiative associated with elderly welfare is the Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana.

It aims to provide assistive devices to eligible senior citizens who experience age-related physical difficulties.

Depending on individual requirements and eligibility, these devices may include:

• Walking sticks and walkers.

• Wheelchairs.

• Hearing aids.

• Crutches.

• Other mobility and supportive devices.

These facilities can help elderly people maintain mobility and independence.

However, devices are not automatically provided to every person above 60. Eligibility conditions and assessment requirements apply.

Can Senior Citizens Get Help With Healthcare and Caregiving?

AVYAY also focuses on developing a trained workforce for elderly care.

Through caregiver training initiatives, individuals can receive skill-based training to provide assistance to senior citizens who need support at home or in care facilities.

The government is also encouraging innovation in elderly care through the Seniorcare Ageing Growth Engine (SAGE). This initiative supports startups developing products, services and technology-based solutions for older people.

Selected startups can receive financial assistance of up to ₹1 crore through equity participation, along with mentoring and market support.

How Can Senior Citizens Find These Government Facilities?

Senior citizens and their families can begin by contacting Elderline at 14567 to understand the available assistance.

They can also approach:

1. The District Social Welfare Office for information about local elderly welfare programmes.

2. The District Collector's office for information about district-level facilities.

3. The relevant State Government department responsible for senior citizen welfare.

4. Eligible senior citizen homes and organisations supported under AVYAY.

For scheme-related information, visit the official Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment website: https://socialjustice.gov.in/.

Important Things Families Should Remember

The Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana is not a universal monthly pension scheme. It primarily supports institutional care, elderly welfare services, assistive devices, caregiver training and related initiatives.

Families should check the eligibility requirements of the particular facility or programme before applying. They should also avoid paying unauthorised agents who promise guaranteed admission or government benefits.

As India's elderly population continues to grow, access to reliable care and support is becoming increasingly important. Knowing about facilities such as Elderline 14567 and AVYAY can help families find assistance when older members need it most.