2.png)
For many years, Ukraine’s aging population has been increasing, and the country now has one of the highest percentages of older people in the world: nearly one fifth of the population is 65 years or older (7 million people).
The aging of the Ukraine's population accelerated sharply after the fall of the Soviet Union in the early 1990s, due to an increase in life expectancy and the emigration of young people; many of the Jews went to Israel, as well as the United States and Western Europe.
The ongoing conflict has disproportionately impacted older people, leaving them with inadequate access to food, housing, health care and essential services. Some of the equipment used by the elderly have become unavailable since the start of the conflict: due to recurrent power cuts, electric wheelchairs can’t be recharged, home respirators don’t work, and elevators are shut off.
Many families who fled Ukraine left their oldest members behind; social workers and other professionals left the country as well, leaving fewer people available to look after the elderly.
Sadly, a significant number of senior citizens in Ukraine are suffering from loneliness, isolation, and despair.
Older people account for a third of deaths directly caused by the war. Many remain in unsafe areas because they are unwilling or unable to relocate and begin life in a new city. Some stay put because they are supporting children, adults with disabilities, or other relatives. In some cases, the lack of mobility has made it more difficult for the elderly to reach a bunker, with tragic consequences.
Nearly a quarter of the general population of Ukraine lives below the poverty line (as compared to just 5% before February 2022); among seniors, the figure is a shocking 80%.
Throughout the ongoing conflict we have worked hard to provide aid and support to the elders of Ukraine, particularly in the Jewish community. In addition to the senior centers we operate, that provide housing, meals, and medical care; we deliver hot meals and operate soup kitchens; we distribute food parcels and household essentials; we coordinate home care and other services; and organize social events at the community centers. Our leaders, staff and social workers regularly visit the elderly in their homes to provide emotional and spiritual care as well as ensuring their physical needs are being met.
It is our honor and privilege to help the people of Ukraine; we make a concerted effort to ensure that the senior citizens know that they are not alone and not forgotten.
.jpg)
