One in Four Sri Lankans Will Be Elderly by 2041

COLOMBO (News 1st); Dr. Anil Jasinghe, Secretary to the Ministry of Health and Mass Media, emphasized the urgent need for Sri Lanka’s healthcare system to adapt to the country’s shifting demographic and health landscape.

“Sri Lanka has long been recognized for its strong foundation in universal health coverage and commitment to accessible care,” Dr. Jasinghe stated at the International Medical Congress commemorating the 138th anniversary of the Sri Lanka Medical Association (SLMA). “However, we are now facing more complex challenges—from an aging population and the rise of non-communicable diseases to the impacts of climate change and emerging infectious threats.”

He highlighted that Sri Lanka is among the fastest-aging nations in Asia, with projections indicating that by 2041, one in four citizens will be elderly. The country’s population is expected to peak around 2050 at approximately 25 million. This demographic shift, he warned, demands a transformation in healthcare delivery.

“The health services we provided five decades ago are no longer sufficient,” he said. “Senior physicians can attest to the changing nature of ailments we now treat. It’s not just about curative care anymore—it’s about a full spectrum of care.”

Dr. Jasinghe called for a resilient and empowering health system that goes beyond treating illness to building the capacity of individuals and communities to stay healthy and recover. “We must move from reactive care to proactive, inclusive, and sustainable health strategies,” he concluded.

The congress, held in Colombo, brought together local and international medical professionals, policymakers, and researchers to explore pathways toward equitable healthcare under the theme “Health Equity in Healthcare During Challenging Times.”