An Analysis of Past Norms, Policies, Programs, and Institutional Measures Aimed at Enhancing the Life Sustainability of the Elderly Community

Life sustainability refers to the capacity to maintain a satisfactory standard of living and well-being throughout the ageing process. Among the elderly, it is a multidimensional concept that involves the active participation of various stakeholders, including policymakers, institutional actors, care providers, families, and communities. This article examines how historical conventions, policies, programs, and institutional initiatives have been developed and implemented to support life sustainability among older adults in Sri Lanka. The study adopts a contextual analysis methodology, drawing on secondary sources that align with the research objectives and are grounded in existing scholarly literature. The findings indicate that elderly care in Sri Lanka has shifted from a culturally embedded, family-based system to a more formalised structure during the colonial period. Since independence, the government has taken considerable steps to improve the well-being of the elderly through welfare policies, institutional mechanisms, and targeted programs. Nevertheless, the rapid growth and increasing complexity of the elderly population, along with ongoing socio-economic changes, continue to challenge efforts toward sustainable ageing. Therefore, it is crucial to revise and strengthen existing policies to ensure they are responsive, practical, and aligned with current socio-economic realities.