HelpAge will perform 3000 free cataract surgeries before 2026 ends

One of HelpAge’s many elderly patients 

HelpAge Sri Lanka, one of Sri Lanka’s oldest social service organisations that conducts free cataract surgeries to underprivileged older persons has decided to perform 3000 free cataract surgeries before the end of this year.  

HelpAge Eye Hospital, Sinsapa Road, Wellawatta, Colombo 6 (Opposite Savoy Cinema) has become a beacon of hope for elderly individuals suffering from cataract and other age-related vision problems. 

According to HelpAge, vision impairment and blindness are the most common health challenges faced by older adults today. According to government statistics, the prevalence of cataract among people over 60 is estimated to be as high as 80 percent.

HelpAge further says that over 55,000 free cataract surgeries have so far  been successfully performed since its inception in 2002.  

Head of the Eye Hospital Dr. Mahanama Wijesinghe said cataracts affect people regardless of their social or economic status, and those who are with adequate financial means can receive treatments through private healthcare services or from insurance schemes, but there a large number of low-income elderly persons facing immense problems when obtaining surgeries.  

He said although cataract surgeries are performed free of charge in government hospitals waiting lists often delay the surgeries.

“Those who need cataract surgeries can contact the HelpAge hospital via telephone on 011 258 9450 or 011 255 5759 to get required details about the surgery.”

He further said the Eye Hospital at Wellawatta is equipped with modern facilities and patients who are travelling from distant areas are provided accommodation following surgery.