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A decade or so earlier, senior citizens found it difficult even to purchase a health insurance policy.

- HIMALI PATEL

Today, not only do they buy them in greater numbers, they also switch to policies offering better features. According to data from Policybazaar.com, portability among senior citizens has risen from 18 per cent in 2022-23 to 29 per cent in 2024-25.

Policy reforms, innovative products The Insurance and Regulatory Authority of India (Irdai) removed the entry age for new and ported business, while also allowing continuity of benefits such as waiting periods. "The launch of dedicated plans for senior citizens, insurers offering riders that reduce the waiting period, and day-one coverage for common pre-existing diseases (PEDs) are encouraging more seniors to port," says Siddharth Singhal, head of health insurance, Policybazaar.