Age does not prevent the contributions that senior citizens could make for the benefit of society. It is, therefore necessary that there should be more facilities for them to participate in national development and at the same time make our youth understand the important role the elderly can play in the advancement of society, said President Mahinda Rajapaksa in his message to mark International Day of Elders.

The culture and traditions in Sri Lanka do not confine respect and proper treatment to the elderly to a single day in a year, he said.

The theme for International Day of Elders this year is "Development through Healthy Aging", which fits in well with the policies of 'Mahinda Chinthana' which provides for 'Respected Senior Citizens' program, the President said.

The text of the President’s International Day of Elders message:


I am pleased to send this message on the occasion of celebrating 'International Day of Elders'.

The culture and traditions in Sri Lanka do not confine respect and proper treatment to the elderly to a single day in a year. It is today's elders who have guided and sheltered us and given us the advice to face the problems of the world, and accordingly they earn our highest respect.

The population of elders in our society is steadily increasing which is a result of the good health and welfare services that Sri Lanka can be truly proud of.

The theme for International Day of Elders this year is "Development through Healthy Aging", which fits in well with the policies of 'Mahinda Chinthana' which provides for 'Respected Senior Citizens' program.

Age does not prevent the contributions that senior citizens could make for the benefit of society. It is, therefore necessary that there should be more facilities for them to participate in national development and at the same time make our youth understand the important role the elderly can play in the advancement of society.

I commend the Ministry of Social Services and Social Welfare for their commitment in work for the welfare of elders in Sri Lanka and wish a better future for all the elders of our motherland.


Mahinda Rajapaksa