Sri Lanka's Silver Tsunami: Navigating Rapid Population Aging

Sri Lanka's elderly population has increased dramatically, constituting 18% of the total as per the 2024 census. This marks a significant transition toward an aging society. The island's total fertility rate has also declined, impacting its demographic composition as age and ethnic distributions shift.

Sri Lanka is experiencing a rapid increase in its elderly population, which now makes up 18% of the total, as per the 2024 census data. This demographic shift signifies a critical transition toward an aging society.

The country's total fertility rate has decreased notably from 3.3% in 1981 to 1.8% in 2024. These changes in age structure are coupled with shifts in ethnic composition and regional population densities.

The Western province remains the demographic heartland, and females now outnumber males in the national population. Additionally, the predominant religion continues to be Buddhism, followed by Hinduism, Islam, and Roman Catholicism.

(With inputs from agencies.)