The mortality decline has also contributed to the increase in the length of working life. The length of working life is a function of labour force participation rates and mortality rates in the working ages. The level of mortality has a significant effect on the supply of labour of a country.

 The loss of active life due to mortality in Sri Lanka has shown a clear downward trend during the period from 1968 to 2001. However, the net years of active life for males have not increased during this period due to the fact that male labour force participation rates have declined during 1971 and 2001. In the case of females, however, the increase in the participation rates and the definite downward trend in mortality have resulted in the increase in net active life.