Earthquake in Morocco

The devastating earthquake that hit Morocco late on Friday 8 September will create huge challenges for those seeking to address the impact on the millions of survivors.

HelpAge International has been assessing how older people are likely to be affected by the earthquake and what response will be required.

Chris McIvor, Regional Representative for Eurasia and the Middle East who previously spent three years working in Morocco said:

“As the death toll rises in Morocco, we are very concerned about the potential impact on the country’s older population. The earthquake is going to have a particularly devastating impact on vulnerable people in hard-to-reach locations.”

Older people face very high risks in the aftermath of an earthquake. They are particularly vulnerable to shock and trauma and often take longer to recover from injuries, while needing urgent and specific medical assistance. The hardship caused when forced to sleep outside in difficult conditions can be particularly challenging for older people and they often struggle to access what aid is offered as well as other essential items such as regular medicine for chronic health conditions, the supply of which is often disrupted.

With aftershocks and an increasing death toll expected, there is a high risk that further damage is to come, compounding the needs of those most at risk.

“The response to this terrible emergency in Morocco must be inclusive of the needs of older people, as well as promoting their engagement and participation in informing the help that is provided,” said Chris McIvor.