The Need for Tailored Social Support for Displaced Seniors
Ihor Terekhov, head of the Association of Frontline Cities and Communities, has argued that elderly internally displaced persons (IDPs) require a distinct approach to social assistance. The Association has proposed a mechanism to create a comprehensive support system and to officially designate February 25th as a national Day of the Internally Displaced Person. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has created one of the largest internal displacement crises in the world, placing immense strain on social services.
Data indicates that approximately 19% of all IDPs are aged 60 or older, amounting to over 800,000 individuals. Ihor Terekhov emphasized that
"elderly displaced persons need a specialized approach. For them, it is essential to develop adapted housing, mobile multidisciplinary teams, day centers, social adaptation programs, and targeted personal support."
The Association's Proposals
The Association's proposals outline a series of concrete measures. Specifically, the support mechanism would include:
- an initial assessment of needs;
- assistance with housing;
- access to medical care and social services;
- integration into community life through day centers and clubs.
Another potential solution is the introduction of a national 'single IDP pathway,' which would synchronize benefit payments and services, focus on employment, and establish a system of social managers.
Ihor Terekhov also noted that
"five years is a sufficient timeframe to do everything necessary so that there is no longer a need for the status of an internally displaced person. During this time, people must either return to safe communities or fully integrate where they live today—with jobs, housing, and confidence in the future."The Association proposes to formally recognize February 25th as the Day of the Internally Displaced Person for the next five years, a move its representatives believe will raise public awareness of the challenges this population faces.
Given the growing number of IDPs in Ukraine, particularly among the elderly, the Association's initiatives could be a crucial step in addressing their social needs. Establishing a dedicated day for IDPs may not only increase societal awareness of their plight but also foster more effective mobilization of resources and support from the state and civil society organizations. This could help build a structured system to ensure a proper standard of living for those forced from their homes by the war.