Abstract:
This paper attempts to probe the status of population ageing in Sri Lanka and its social
and economic consequences. The study uses secondary and primary level data, drawn
from the censuses, vital registration and Demographic Survey, 1994 and from a
purposive sample of 731 elderly people aged 60 years and over in several districts in
2003 respectively. Mostly the cross sectional approach is used to analyse the data.
Sri Lanka is continuously experiencing one of the fastest ageing populations in the
developing world due to gradual change of fertility and mortality with prolongation of
longevity. The proportion of old population aged 60 and over has been increased over
the decades and the age structure is conspicuously changed from young to old
population. The rapidity of ageing has commenced since last two decades whilst its
acceleration could be expected more in future decades. The doubling proportion of old
persons is sooner in future. Socio-economic consequences were generated by the
changing of age structure with the transformation of family systems, living arrangements,
co-residence patterns and socio-economic situation of the country. The economic and
social support and care of the elderly are changing in view of breaking up of traditional
family systems, changing life styles and activity patterns of youth adult children. The
strengthening of social security benefits for the elderly by using several policy options is
so beneficial as the present coverage and the benefits are inadequate for the survival of
the elderly people with their longevity. The elderly people those were in the private and
unorganized sector, unemployed, those who are in agricultural and casual work under
uncertain or low wages should be seriously concern to provide them some form of social
security benefits and socioeconomic empowerment to the family to care for better health
and fair diet. Though there are such numerous policy options could be considered, the
most pragmatic and sustainable policy options, programmes and strategies to be taken
vigorously and momentously to meet the challenges due to rapid population ageing in
Sri Lanka. These all policy implications will lead to mediate the problems associated with
ageing in future and thereby brings the elderly as so healthier and productive group of
people in the Sri Lankan society.
