Travancore Foundation:

Travancore Foundation redefines elder care with innovation and research, setting the bar for person-centric quality care and unparalleled service

Travancore Foundation redefines elder care with innovation and research, setting the bar for person-centric quality care and unparalleled service

As you step into Mission Valley, India’s prestigious platinum-status senior living haven set up by the Travancore Foundation (TF), you’re instantly transported to what feels like a luxurious resort, tucked away in the sleepy village of Karukachal, near Kottayam, boasting its exotic locale, sophisticated modern infrastructure and cutting-edge facilities, all managed by a dedicated army of caregivers tending to every resident’s needs with utmost care. This delightful atmosphere exudes the air of an exclusive private club, defying the typical notions of a mundane old-age home.

TF stands at the forefront of India’s senior care sector, epitomisng unparalleled service, fuelled by innovation and research-based best practices — a scientific approach to care that transcends mere provision of shelter, food, and activities. Jiji Philip, Chief Executive Officer of TF, elaborates on the comprehensive spectrum of care arrangements, carefully tailored for seniors, encompassing independent living, assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing care and the continuum of care. “We strive to achieve the optimum physical, mental, emotional and spiritual wellbeing of our residents and everyone is keen to go that extra mile to ensure that this vision becomes a reality. It’s a journey that never ends.”

Person-centric quality care

TF embarked on its journey as a humble charity organisation on September 17, 2009, brought to life by the passion and dedication of Mathew Chandy Matteethra, Jiji Philip, and Philip K John. Together, they started and set their sights on providing dignified and healthy lives to seniors, envisioning person-centric quality care with a community-based approach, and a strong focus on education and research. Weathering initial challenges, including a global economic recession and societal apprehensions towards institutional elder care, TF forged ahead, giving birth to Mission Valley, an innovative pioneer venture on a 2.5-acre property in Karukachal. With a built-up area of around 50,000 sq. ft and a team of dedicated caregivers, this project redefined the very essence of well-being, social engagement and productivity for the elderly in Kerala.

With keen attention to detail, the Centre was designed to cater to the specific needs of the elderly, boasting elder-friendly infrastructure with wheelchair accessibility, wide ramps, grab bars, anti-skid floors and elevators. The elegant in-suite units, each spanning about 400 sq.ft, come equipped with modern amenities like intercoms and Wi-Fi, ensuring residents’ comfort and convenience. The presence of an automatic generator set, round-the-clock CCTV surveillance, and serene green spaces adorned with flowers and cool breezes add to the overall sense of safety and enjoyment, fulfilling the vision of creating an age-friendly haven for residents to age gracefully in place, as articulated by Jiji Philip.

TF’s growth trajectory saw the establishment of two more locations — Rahel Homes in Kolencherry and Presidency Homes in Kochi — serving as the State’s first transitional and rehab care facilities, collectively accommodating 150 residents, offering a range of care options from independent living to assisted living and skilled care. The organisation’s success and pioneering status in elder care are attributed to its exceptional management, led by the visionary Chairperson Dr Renu Abraham Varughese, a renowned clinical gerontologist with good exposure to U.S. long-term care centres, a two-time U.S. Fulbright award recipient and an academician, instrumental in shaping TF into a facility that matches international standards in elder care.