The reality in numbers (2026)
The ongoing war continues to reshape daily life, leaving millions in urgent need of support. The humanitarian crisis remains acute, with older people bearing a disproportionate and devastating burden of the war.
- 10.8 million people in Ukraine require humanitarian assistance this year.
- 4.2 million people require immediate, life-saving aid.
- 9.6 million people remain uprooted from their homes (3.8 million internally displaced and 5.8 million living as refugees abroad).
- 13% of the nation’s housing has been damaged or destroyed, leaving many without safe shelter.
Older people: at the centre of the crisis
While people over 60 represent 25% of the population, they face unique challenges that often go unseen. The gap between their needs and the support available remains a critical concern.
- A disproportionate toll: Tragically, older people account for 50% of all civilian deaths and 33% of all injuries.
- The aid gap: Despite their extreme vulnerability, only 33% of older people are currently reached by humanitarian organisations.
- Isolation: 51% of those aged over 70 are now living alone, separated from family support networks.
- Living standards: 65% of older Ukrainians are living in poor conditions, and 62% struggle to afford or access basic daily essentials.
- Mental health: The prolonged strain has taken a heavy toll; 80% report high levels of anxiety and distress, with over half stating it severely impacts their daily functioning.
HelpAge staff and volunteers provide essential humanitarian assistance to older people across Ukraine and those seeking safety abroad. We ensure the delivery of food, medicine, and hygiene supplies to older people, their families, and their communities to ensure no one is left to face these challenges alone.
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Supporting older Ukrainian refugees in Moldova
Since February 2022, Moldova has welcomed over a million Ukrainian refugees, including many older people facing challenges such as disability and mobility issues. HelpAge International, together with HelpAge Moldova, is assisting them and older Moldovans through key initiatives.
Age-inclusive humanitarian action: In partnership with the World Food Programme, this project provides food to Refugee Accommodation Centres and hosts social inclusion activities. It also advocates for older people’s needs, empowering local NGOs to deliver inclusive humanitarian aid.
DEC-funded support for older refugees: HelpAge, supported by Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) and Age International, ensures older Ukrainian refugees, including those with disabilities, receive essential aid to improve their quality of life and live with dignity.
Resilience project: Launched in November 2024, this initiative provides cash assistance for essentials like food and rent and distributes mobility aids such as walking frames and glasses to promote independence.
