Many families in Mumbai live in a different suburb, or a different city, from their parents. You cannot be there every moment, but a simple plan makes help arrive faster.
Key points
- Make a one-page sheet with conditions, medicines, doctors and contacts.
- Keep key numbers handy: 112 for emergencies and 108 for an ambulance.
- Reduce fall risks with better lighting, grab bars and non-slip mats.
- Agree a daily check-in time and arrange regular check-ups.
Make a one-page sheet
- Name, age, medical conditions and known allergies
- Medicines with doses and timings
- The family doctor’s name and number
- Two or three family contacts, and one neighbour
- The preferred hospital
- The society security desk number
Keep it where help will find it
Stick a copy on the fridge or near the phone, keep a photo of it on the phone, and give a copy to a trusted neighbour.
Numbers everyone should know
- 112 for emergency services
- 108 for an ambulance
- The emergency number of the nearest hospital
- The family doctor
Make the home safer
- Remove loose rugs and clutter
- Add night lights between the bed and the toilet
- Fit grab bars and non-slip mats in the bathroom
- Keep a phone within reach, including at night
- Leave a spare key with a trusted neighbour or building security
- Keep medicines in a weekly organiser
Build a routine
Regular elderly care at home visits can add a second pair of eyes between family calls.
- Agree a fixed time for a daily check-in call
- Ask a neighbour to look in if the call is missed
- Book regular check-ups so small problems are found early
- Tell society security that an ambulance may need quick access and the lift
If there is a fall
Do not lift the person quickly if there is severe pain, a head injury or they cannot move a limb. Call 108. If they are unhurt, help them up slowly and ask a doctor to check them afterwards.
Frequently asked questions
What should be on the emergency sheet?
Conditions, allergies, medicines with timings, doctor and family contacts, the preferred hospital and the society security number.
How often should an elderly parent have a check-up?
It depends on their health. Many older adults benefit from a regular review of medicines and conditions, as their doctor advises.
Can a doctor visit a parent while I live in another city?
Yes. Share their address, age, medicines and your contact number, and we plan the visit with you. See doctor home visits.
Not for emergencies. Home healthcare does not replace emergency hospital care. In a medical emergency, contact emergency services or go to the nearest emergency department.