ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the aging population in Sri Lanka including the social and health challenges facing this population. The national, district, divisional, and village-level challenges faced by elders will be addressed. Similar to other countries, the older adult population of Sri Lanka has increased significantly over the past few decades. This is a result of an increased life expectancy combined with a drop in fertility. As a result, there are significant changes in the family structure and living arrangements have posed new challenges for the society. Providing adequate family support has become a major issue due to the changes in the family settings, relationships, and the working-age population. As a result of the increase in life expectancy, elders require more assistance including emotional and financial support. Considering multiple physical and psychological health challenges facing older adults in Sri Lanka, it is important to find effective and sustainable methods to address the needs of this vulnerable population.
