Day centers for the elderly

COLOMBO (News1st); The National Secretariat for Elders said a programme was launched to establish day centers for the elderly.

Its Director Kapila Lanerolle said the measure was taken considering the issues faced by the growing elderly population.

He said 150 such centers have been built across the country.

Lanerolle said the programme was established for the elderly who live alone to spend time with a similar group and engage in various activities such as health clinics and awareness programmes.

He added that the centers will be maintained by the elderly itself, and not officials.

Lanerolle said the elderly who are members of the village committee will automatically receive membership for the respective day center.

Kapila Lanerolle said if anyone wants to establish a day center they need to find a property that is either a state owned land or a private donation.

He said if they have a land, the National Secretariat for Elders will provide up to Rs.3.5 million to either construct a day center or renovate an existing center.

Lanerolle added that a further Rs.500,000 will be granted to purchase necessary equipment for the day center including books and other tools.