Abstract
This study aims to evaluate the consequences of the out-migration of children of older adult middle and upper-class Sri Lankans in the capital Colombo. Increased global migration patterns and changing aging demographics have transformed the relationships of transnational families. It is crucial to understand the significance of aging today amidst migration, social-transformation, and even crisis. This global phenomenon is also very large in Sri Lanka but little is studied and investigated. With limited literature on aging in Sri Lanka and the migration of transnational families, it is imperative to highlight the stories of the older adults. Twenty-two interviews were conducted with Sri Lankan adults over fifty years old with at least one adult child living abroad on their experiences with aging and wellbeing with a lens of the impacts of the ongoing economic crisis on their lives. All interviews were conducted in the summer of 2022 during the height of economic and political instability in Sri Lanka. Informal conversations and observations were also recorded in the context of day-to-day life while I conducted research there. This study expands on earlier literature regarding the expected loneliness of older adults within transnational families. The aging process and support system for the participant group demonstrates positive independent experiences with communities of friends and unanimous support for sending their children abroad for more opportunities. Based on participant responses, this study also investigates the relationships older adults have with Sri Lankan patriotism after living through decades of traumatic history. Participants revealed a largely content and independent lifestyle from their children due to community support in Sri Lanka and their national connection as a product of their shared experiences. Further, parents continue to feel connected to their children and care about their children’s professional and personal success even though they have moved away. The study suggests that cultural communities and a strong sense of patriotism can overshadow feelings of loneliness and separation from children within transnational families.