Older people’s stories
Older people are speaking out and we are listening. Our collection of life stories captures the strength and resilience behind a lifetime of experience.
Browse our story collections
A family without shelter: Abu Mohammed’s story of survival in Gaza
Abu Mohammed and his family fled their home in Gaza, only to lose everything in a strike on their temporary shelter. Abu Mohammed remains focused on his family’s survival.
From home to heartache: Sabah’s story of survival and hope amid displacement in Lebanon
Sabah, 57, recounts fleeing airstrikes in South Lebanon and facing hardship in Beirut. Her story highlights the urgent need for aid for displaced older people.
Enduring war and longing for home: Samira and Moussa’s story of hope in Lebanon
Moussa, 75, and his wife Samira, 72, share their struggle after fleeing war in South Lebanon, holding onto hope amid harsh conditions.
“All we need is a tent”: Umm Maher’s fight for shelter in war-torn Gaza
As the war rages on, Umm Maher’s wish is heartbreakingly simple: a tent for her family to call home.
From Home to Hopelessness: The Story of Aida
Aida and her family's lives changed forever when they were forced to leave their home in southern Lebanon.
A year of war in Gaza: A reflection on survival, displacement, and loss
Ridha has been forced to move more than 15 times in the past 12 months. "Some days, we moved twice from one house to another because of the intense shelling. We walked for hours, searching for safety," she recalls.
Umm Mohammad: A story of resilience amid Gaza’s war and struggle for healthcare
Discover the story of an older woman from Gaza who shares her experiences of survival amidst war.
Independence through their eyes: what Ukraine’s freedom means to the older generation
On the occasion of Ukraine's Independence Day, we speak with older Ukrainians about what freedom and independence mean to them.
“The only way to survive was by helping each other.”
74-year-old Andrii shares his story of living in a Ukrainian frontline village
Battles beyond bombs: Health plight of older Ukrainians
Older Ukrainians speak about their health concerns in times of war.
“Having water so close by is a dream”
HelpAge is responding to severe climate change patterns in La Guajira, Colombia, by providing elaborate water systems.
Rebuilding resilience during trauma: a focus on mental health
On World Mental Health Day (10 October), we want to shine a spotlight on the mental health support needed by older refugees such as Abbas.