CADENA International, a HelpAge network member with offices across Latin America, has launched an emergency response in Venezuela following the 24 June earthquakes. Its efforts focus on search and rescue, healthcare, relief distributions, psychosocial support and rapid needs assessments.
The organisation has deployed international search and rescue specialists, and is delivering emergency supplies including household water filters and solar lamps, working closely with local authorities and humanitarian partners on the ground.
Reaching older people and other at-risk groups
Among the estimated 1.8 million people in need of humanitarian assistance, around 250,000 older people are expected to require targeted support. Older people represent approximately 14% of the population and are among those facing the greatest risks following the disaster, particularly those living with disabilities, chronic health conditions, mobility limitations, social isolation, or the loss of caregivers.
Responding to urgent needs on the ground
Initial assessments conducted by CADENA found overcrowded shelters, families sleeping outdoors due to fear of aftershocks, limited access to safe drinking water, shortages of basic medical supplies, and growing protection concerns. Teams also reported that many older people had lost essential assistive devices and were struggling to access services and humanitarian assistance.
To address these needs, CADENA is providing emergency relief items, supporting access to safe water, and helping affected households meet their most urgent basic needs. The organisation is prioritising households with older people, particularly those facing additional risks linked to disability, chronic illness, damaged housing, or lack of family support.
Providing healthcare and psychosocial support
Volunteer medical brigades are providing primary healthcare services in affected communities, while additional medical teams and supplies are being mobilised to strengthen the response. Particular attention is being given to ensuring continuity of care for older people and others who rely on regular medication and treatment for chronic conditions.
At the same time, CADENA is delivering mental health and psychosocial support through specialist staff and trained volunteers. Community-based activities and psychological first aid are helping survivors cope with trauma, grief, stress and uncertainty following the earthquakes. Older people, who may be experiencing heightened isolation and distress, are a key focus of these efforts.
A CADENA team member conducts a psychosocial assessment with an earthquake survivor.
Scaling up for recovery
CADENA is preparing to expand its emergency response in the coming weeks. Planned activities include the distribution of water, hygiene and shelter kits, food assistance, protection activities, disaster risk awareness initiatives, healthcare support, and continued mental health and psychosocial services. The aim is to ensure that older people and other at-risk groups are not left behind as affected communities move from emergency response towards recovery.
Discover how the HelpAge network supports older people in emergencies worldwide
