Needs assessment of older people in Lebanon after the Israel-Lebanon cross-border escalation of September-November 2024

This report presents key findings and recommendations on the protection, health, livelihoods, disability inclusion, and access to humanitarian assistance for older people in Lebanon, based on data collected in February 2025 to guide age-inclusive emergency response and recovery.

Published

Six months after the 2024 cross-border escalation between Israel and Lebanon, older people remain largely excluded from recovery efforts. Despite forming 11% of Lebanon’s population – the highest proportion of older people in the Arab region – they continue to face systematic neglect in humanitarian assistance, healthcare, mental health services, and decision-making.

Key Findings

1. Widespread exclusion from aid

  • 61% of older people received no aid post-conflict.
  • During active hostilities, 39% were entirely left out.
  • Of those who did receive aid, only 12% said it met their needs.

2. Healthcare access severely disrupted

  • 48% accessed healthcare only irregularly; 17% had no access at all.
  • Major gaps included medications, dental care, and general health services.

3. Mental health and isolation

  • 39% described their mental health as poor or very poor.
  • 59% had no access to psychosocial support.
  • 52% did not participate in any community activities, highlighting high levels of isolation.

4. Disability-related exclusion

  • Over a third of respondents had at least one disability.
  • Many lacked assistive devices like glasses, crutches, or hearing aids, heightening their vulnerability.

5. Lack of voice in recovery

  • 51% were not consulted by any humanitarian actors.
  • Yet 65% expressed a desire to be involved in future planning and rebuilding efforts.

Recommendations

The report urges humanitarian actors, governments, and donors to:

  • Involve older people in all stages of emergency response and recovery.

  • Strengthen health and mental health services tailored to older populations.

  • Ensure aid delivery is accessible, including through door-to-door methods.

  • Combat ageism and improve accountability for inclusive responses.

  • Recognise the contributions of older people as caregivers and community leaders.

Local Leadership and Partnerships

HelpAge, in partnership with Amel Association International and IDRAAC, is working to:

  • Provide mobile outreach, peer support, and tailored psychosocial care.

  • Expand access to healthcare through dedicated Ageing Units and community-based services.

  • Train caregivers and support older people’s mental health recovery.

These local, age-inclusive efforts have been key to rebuilding dignity and agency among older people.