The world’s oldest humanitarian crisis: Millions of older Ukrainians continue to suffer after three years of war
After more than three years of conflict, millions of older Ukrainians are facing a deepening crisis, according to a new HelpAge report released today. Older people make up one quarter of the country’s population but accounted for half of all civilian deaths and a third of injuries in 2024. Yet, only 1 in 3 of them has received aid from humanitarian organizations.
The report, “Every year it gets harder to hold on”: Older people in Ukraine want to be seen and heard, is based on a nationally representative survey and builds on HelpAge’s 2022 study. The data reveal how dangerously invisible and underreported older people have become in the Ukraine war.
"Every Year It Gets Harder to Hold On"
Key Findings and Challenges
- 62% of older people struggle to afford basic needs such as food, medicine, and hygiene products.
- 2 out of 3 older people live in poor housing conditions, many needing urgent repairs.
- 32% of older people now lack safe shelter due to war damage—an 11% increase since 2022.
- 44% of those over 70 live alone without family support.
- 68% of older women say their pension does not cover basic needs.
- 80% report anxiety and distress, with over half saying it affects their daily lives.
“Every day, older people tell us how their lives are getting harder,” says Victoriia Panchenko, Acting Country Director of HelpAge’s Ukraine office. “They talk about poverty, loneliness, and homes falling apart. This report gives them a powerful voice and us a clear mandate for action. To make a meaningful difference, we must genuinely listen, involve them, and ensure they help shape the policies and programs that affect their lives.”
Barriers to Accessing Aid
Older people often face unique challenges in accessing humanitarian assistance. Mobility issues, financial constraints, and digital exclusion make it harder for many to reach help when it arrives. For example, some cannot navigate complex application processes, travel long distances to aid points, or stand in long lines for services.
This is especially true for older women, who generally receive smaller pensions, face rising costs of living, and find fewer opportunities for employment. Displaced older Ukrainians, those over 70, and older people with disabilities experience greater difficulties, with limited access to essential medicines and food.
“Now – I am alone. The war has taken my home and the ability to communicate with loved ones and my community,” says Anatolii, 75, one of the older people interviewed. “That’s what I find hardest. It gets worse over time. Over the past year, I’ve felt more isolated and lonelier. What worries me most is what’s next?”
Strength and Resilience Amid Crisis
Amid all this, older Ukrainians show incredible strength and hope. Many volunteer in their villages, sing in choirs, teach, look after grandchildren, or even start small businesses.
“I sing in a choir. You know, I feel very needed. Other people say my energy inspires them.” – Olena, 89
“It is hard for me. But I won’t stop! I want to run an honest business, pay taxes and live with dignity, even if the war has turned my life upside down. Older people have strength and experience – don’t give up!’’ – Liubov, 64
What Needs to Happen Now
The report urges governments, aid agencies, and donors to prioritize:
- Targeted support for older people, especially women, those over 70, and people with disabilities, to meet rising needs for income, food, housing, and medicine.
- Contingency plans to support older people near the frontline in case of a ceasefire of shift in hostilities.
- Accessible services and information, with mobile healthcare expanded for those in remote or hard-to-reach areas, particularly older people with disabilities.
- Tailored mental health support that responds to the specific experiences and stressors faced by older people during the war.
- Comprehensive public policies that guarantee pensions meet basic needs, improve housing access, support older workers and entrepreneurs, and train service providers on older people’s rights.
- Meaningful involvement of older people in the decisions that affect their lives.
Join Us in Taking Action
At HelpAge USA, we are committed to ensuring older people are not forgotten in humanitarian crises. This report serves as a powerful reminder that the needs of older people must be front and center in the response to the Ukraine conflict—and in all emergencies around the world.
We call on governments, donors, and aid agencies to increase investment in programs that are accessible, inclusive, and respectful of older people’s rights and dignity.
Older people have built Ukraine and continue to build its future. They deserve to grow old in safety, dignity, and with the support they need.
The report is being launched today, July 22, in Kyiv, with speakers from the United Nations, Government of Ukraine, and HelpAge International.
Media Contact:
Alex Garvey
HelpAge USA
Email: agarvey@helpageusa.org
Photos and interviews with subject matter experts and older people featured in the report are available upon request.
