The elderly population in Sri Lanka is increasing in line with the increase in the world elderly population.
According to a report by the National Secretariat for Elders, it is expected that the elderly population, which was 9.4 percent in 2000 in the country, will be 27.6 percent by 2050.
A dance item by Eastern Province society
members
The National Secretariat for Elders, established under “Protection of the Rights of Elders Act No.9 of 2000” under the Ministry of Social Empowerment and Welfare, has taken steps to provide elders with welfare assistance.
All Ceylon Elders’ Association (ACEA) President N. P. Thilakarathna said that the majority of the elders live in rural environment, and it is the duty of the authorities to identify the social and the economic problems they face and to strive to develop their mental, social and spiritual wellbeing.
The National Secretariat for Elders has implemented various programs using their knowledge, skills and experience for social development. The Secretariat is the prime administrative body engaged in implementing programs approved by the Council for Elders. The National Charter and National Policy for Elders have been adopted by the Cabinet of Ministers in 2006. The Policy has mainly focused on health, social welfare and economic support.
ACEA President N. P. Thilakarathna
ACEA President Thilakarathna said, “Elders’ Societies have been set up at the Grama Niladhari division level throughout the island and Elders’ Committees have been set up at the Divisional Secretariat division level. There are 2,158 Grama Niladhari division level Elders’ Societies and 46 D.S. division level Elders’ Committees in the North Western Province. Their membership is nearly 300,000. Most elders are not aware of their rights. Therefore, we have organised programs to make them aware of their rights.”
The National Secretariat for Elders with the assistance of the Social Services Department grants a monthly allowance of Rs. 3,000 for those above 70 years in needy families. Elder’s identity cardholders are eligible for discount in purchasing goods and services. They need not wait in queues at hospitals or Osu Salas.
The Social Services Department organises annual pilgrimages for elders and the travelling expenses are incurred by the department.
Relationship tours are arranged also annually by Provincial Level Elders’ Committees from one province to another to strengthen their bonds.
A Welfare Fund has been set up to assist the needy financially. Vulnerable people such as those from low income families, differently-abled persons, senior citizens and single parent families are provided additional assistance.
A magazine with creations such as poems, and short stories by elders is published annually by the Provincial Level Elders’ Committees. Singing competitions are conducted and prizes are awarded to winning elders.
