Study on factors responsible for high life expectancy in the elderly population in the peripheral area of northwest Sinharaja forest

A study on the northwest periphery of Sinharaja Forest Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Sri Lanka's least disturbed lowland rainforests, reveals that indigenous lifestyles closely tied to forest resources contribute significantly to high life expectancy among elderly populations. The research found that individuals, including a 99-year-old in good health, maintained sharp memories and detailed knowledge of over 100 forest-derived food items. Key factors included access to nutrient-rich, locally sourced food, occupations involving prolonged outdoor activity, stress-free lifestyles, and leisure time—all supported by the forest's ecological richness. Conducted through household surveys, interviews, and field observations between 2011 and 2013, this study provides empirical evidence linking biodiversity-dependent livelihoods to longevity in tropical rainforest-adjacent communities.

Ali, S. K. M., & Kumara, R. K. C. (2014). Study on factors responsible for high life expectancy in the elderly population in the peripheral area of northwest Sinharaja forest. Journal of the University of Ruhuna, 1(2), 3–8. https://doi.org/10.4038/jur.v1i2.6620