Sri Lanka is undergoing a rapid demographic shift characterized by a growing elderly population, posing significant economic and social challenges for the country. According to data from the 2024 Census of Population and Housing, individuals aged 60 and above now comprise 18 percent of the population, marking nearly a threefold increase from 6.6 percent in 1981. The portion of those aged 65 and older stands at 12.6 percent, positioning Sri Lanka on the cusp of being classified as an “aged” society—a status projected to evolve into “super-aged” within the next two decades, based on United Nations projections.

This demographic transition is occurring at an accelerated pace compared to historical precedents in other countries. For instance, France took around a century to navigate this shift, while Japan completed it in 24 years. Sri Lanka is expected to undergo this transformation in roughly 20 years. By 2050, it is projected that nearly 30 percent of Sri Lankans will be aged 60 or above, with the country’s median age having risen from 21 years in 1981 to 35 today.

The demographic changes are shifting the balance between dependent and working-age populations. Whereas in 1981 there were 60 children and 11 elderly persons per 100 working-age adults, current figures indicate 34 children and 29 older persons per 100 working-age individuals. The number of older dependents is expected to surpass that of children within this decade, ultimately outnumbering children by nearly two to one by mid-century. This evolution will affect resource allocation and service demand, with likely reductions in the need for schools and increased pressure on health care, social protection, and pension systems to serve an aged population.

Notably, the oldest segments of the population are growing fastest; the number of people aged 70-74 has nearly doubled over the past 12 years, and there are approximately 950,000 individuals aged 75 and above. These trends underscore the immediacy of aging as a societal concern.

The aging experience in Sri Lanka is disproportionately female. Women outnumber men among older citizens, and among those living alone—estimated at around 370,000—the majority are women. Factors contributing to this disparity include longer female life expectancy and differing marital patterns. Women tend to face greater risks of isolation, poverty, and vulnerability in old age, compounded by smaller family sizes and increased migration of younger generations, which limits traditional familial care structures.

Economically, Sri Lanka faces challenges in securing financial stability for its aging population. Only about 30 percent of the labor force benefits from formal pension coverage. The Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) provides a lump sum payment at retirement—50 years for women and 55 for men—but with life expectancy exceeding 76 years, many retirees must stretch limited savings over decades. Additionally, women, who are more likely to engage in informal employment or leave the workforce for caregiving roles, often enter old age with fewer financial resources.

Despite these challenges, longer life spans offer potential benefits. Many older Sri Lankans remain economically active well beyond traditional retirement ages, contributing to a growing “Silver Economy.” Recognizing this, experts stress the importance of reforming retirement policies, expanding pension coverage to informal workers, and transforming lump-sum provident fund payouts into sustainable retirement income streams. Flexible work opportunities for older adults are also key to harnessing this economic potential.

Addressing aging in Sri Lanka requires comprehensive investment in eldercare infrastructure. This includes expanding home-based and community care services, providing respite support for caregivers, and enhancing access to geriatric care within primary healthcare systems. Such measures are vital as family compositions evolve and traditional caregiving roles diminish.

The latest census has illuminated the demographics and living conditions of Sri Lanka’s older population, highlighting the urgency of policy responses. As the country advances into this demographic new era, the challenge will be to ensure that its elders receive care and support that reflect their contributions to society. The transition to an aged society is not merely a demographic milestone but a critical development issue that will shape Sri Lanka’s social and economic future.