Aging in Community Project in Sri Lanka

Despite the limited access to elderly care services in Sri Lanka , most of the elders are able to live with their family at home.  I was wandering why and how they can do this. Based on the interviews, site visits, and discussions with locals in Sri Lanka, I found that following are the factors which enable elderly people to age in their own home in the community in Sri Lanka . Unfortunately, accessibility issues are not yet addressed by any parties, while social policy report published by UN suggested for government of Sri Lanka to take immediate action.

• Buddhism tradition (Respect elders, taking care of parents)

   

• Dana (sharing and donation)

   

• Not only family members, but also relatives and neighbours share responsibility of care

   

• Inexpensive and easy access to bus transportation

   

• Availability of different transportation bus, 3wheelers, train, riding bike

   

The detail of each factor will be discussed in the following blog entries.