As the conflict in Ukraine passes the 1,000-day mark, we’re spotlighting four inspiring stories that celebrate resilience, creativity, and the transformative impact of HelpAge USA-supported initiatives on older people navigating the challenges of war.
"I Never Thought I Would Dance at My Age"
In Ivano-Frankivsk, 64-year-old Nataliia leads an active life. She works to support herself and her family; and recently, she has rediscovered joy through fitness and dance classes offered by a HelpAge partner, Caritas of the Ascension of the Lord. Amid the stress of the ongoing war, where both her sons are serving, Nataliia has found a new sense of energy and well-being.
“Everything is free here,” Nataliia shares, emphasizing how the program has enabled her to pursue activities she once dreamed of but couldn’t afford. Dance classes have been a highlight: “I never thought I would be dancing at my age, but I surprised myself. These classes are an extraordinary relaxation and release!”
Beyond physical activity, Nataliia has gained vital skills through workshops and consultations, from managing stress with a psychologist to mastering digital tools like paying bills online.
“It’s Increasingly Difficult to Manage on My Own”
Hanna, 82, fled her home in Kherson and now lives alone in Prykarpattia. With limited income, Hanna struggles to cover basic needs like utility bills and medication for her diabetes and spinal disease.
“The most pressing issue for me right now is to survive. At my age, it’s increasingly difficult to manage on my own. Paying utility bills and for medication takes up all my money,” she shares. “My vision and hearing have worsened, and I’m experiencing more frequent headaches and tinnitus. I need surgery on my knee and ongoing treatment, but the medication is very expensive.”
HelpAge USA’s support has been a lifeline, providing food packages, a medical kit, and a glucometer. Hanna also attends art therapy sessions, where she finds solace in creative expression: “Despite the issues with my right arm, I painted such a beautiful picture!”
These sessions bring Hanna moments of joy and distraction from her challenges.
“When We Gather It Feels Like an Escape from the Harsh Reality”
66-year-old Olha from Kharkiv was forced to leave her home in March 2022, fleeing the war. Together with her husband and granddaughter, for whom she became a legal guardian, they settled in a collective center in Drohobych.
Olha’s modest pension of 2,725 UAH ($66 USD), along with state allowance for internally displaced persons and a small amount for her granddaughter’s care, is not enough to cover the family’s expenses. Olha faces serious health issues; her legs are failing and she’s been diagnosed with diabetes and several chronic conditions, which require regular medication. However, due to the high cost of some of these medicines, she is often forced to go without them.
“Not all medicines are available in pharmacies, and I often have to order them online. Some of them are very expensive, and I can’t always afford them, so I don’t get the treatment I need,” Olha shares.
Her participation in the activities at the HelpAge USA-supported Community Safe Space in Drohobych has been a lifeline for her. “I find incredible peace through creativity – I paint by numbers, create diamond mosaics, and embroider with ribbons. Additionally, thanks to digital literacy courses, I’ve learned how to use a smartphone, and now I can search for and order medicines, as well as find the information I need,” Olha says.
“When we gather at our space—whether it’s painting, or simply having tea and chatting with other displaced persons—it feels like an escape from the harsh reality. We forget about the war, about all the hardships. It gives me immense emotional and mental support.”
Challenging Ageist Stereotypes
In celebration of the International Day of Older Persons (IDOP) on October 1, older displaced people in Drohobych and Lviv proved they are more than recipients of aid – they are vibrant contributors to society.
In Drohobych, about 80 older people organized and held a festive event for other older displaced persons living in a dormitory, preparing costumes and choreographic numbers independently.
Ludmila, 77, one of the most active participants, is confident that only older people can change stereotypes about age. “Dancing, creating, dreaming—all of this is possible at any age. We can give a lot to society ourselves.”
Meanwhile, in Lviv, an exhibition of paintings and embroidery created by displaced older people debuted, showcasing their talent and creativity. The events celebrate the enduring potential of older individuals to inspire, uplift, and make meaningful contributions to their communities and beyond.
These stories highlight how HelpAge USA-supported initiatives empower older people in Ukraine to not only survive but thrive—fostering dignity, creativity, and resilience in the face of immense challenges.
