March 5, 2024 •

# Elderly Compassionate Care Program 2024

## The Challenge

Sri Lanka’s rapidly aging population – over 12% of citizens are above 60 – faces isolation and inadequate care. Many elders’ homes in Kandy, Galle, and Jaffna struggle with funding shortages, leading to one meal per day and no mental stimulation. Loneliness among elderly residents has been linked to rising depression rates and cognitive decline.

## Our Impact

Working with 8 government-run and 15 private elders’ homes, we have:

- Delivered 50,000+ hot meals through our “Share a Plate” program, using locally sourced ingredients.
- Organized weekly companionship visits by 200 trained volunteers, reducing reported loneliness by 55%.
- Conducted mindfulness and seated yoga sessions twice weekly for 600 elderly participants, improving sleep quality and mobility.
- Provided spiritual wellness circles (Buddhist, Hindu, Christian, Muslim) respecting diverse faiths, reaching 1,000 seniors.
- Installed wheelchair ramps and grab bars in 5 homes, preventing fall-related injuries.