Elders Care Givers Programme

Population ageing is a major problem which the world has to face. Sri Lanka too is affected by this global trend. In today’s complexed society system, the elders getting isolated within the family, is a severe problem which has arisen.

Due to employment, various other duties and necessities, there is hardly any time left for some people to look after their elders eventhough they are willing to do so. This situation is found mostly in Urban societies. When it is not possible to provide the necessary care and services to the parents, finding a reliable person for such activities, has been a great problem up to now.

Taking into consideration the requests which are being received regularly by Ministry of Social Services and Social Welfare, it has initiated a systematic programme in this regard, i.e. the newly set up Elderly Care Givers programme (Wedihiti Sathkaraka Sevaya).

Those between the ages of 25 - 45 years, representing both males and females, who have studied up to Ordinary Level, were taken into consideration. These trainees were given three weeks training.

Wide publicity has been give regarding the elderly care givers programme through electronic media programmes conducted with the participation of Heads of Institutions and also by news paper notices. There is a great demand already.