Clothing, cash assistance and medication are what displaced people in Mount Lebanon urgently need according to a Rapid Needs Assessment carried out by the Institute for Development, Research, Advocacy and Applied Care (IDRAAC), a member of the HelpAge global network in Lebanon.
The assessment highlights the critical situation facing displaced people in the district of Mount Lebanon amidst escalating violence, with further analysis on the situation of older people.
Lebanon, already struggling with economic and political challenges, has seen over one million people displaced since hostilities escalated, including a significant proportion of older people. Almost 180,000 displaced individuals are currently seeking refuge in collective centres that have been set up across the country, many of which are former schools and are ill-equipped to cater to their needs.
Key findings
Among the 492 people interviewed, the most urgent needs identified were clothing, cash assistance, and medication, with access to medication being the top priority of people aged 50 years and above.
Many of the displaced fled with very few belongings, and the impending winter season adds urgency to the need for warm clothing. Financial support is also essential, especially for older people who typically face more challenges in accessing income. The survey found that 86% of people aged 60 and over did not have enough money, exacerbating their vulnerability.
Moreover, the lack of access to assistive products, such as eyeglasses, hearing aids and walking sticks, is a significant concern for older people, many of whom require these items to maintain their independence. Almost half of respondents requiring assistive products did not have access to them.
Mental health and psychosocial needs
The assessment also revealed widespread psychological distress, with 74% of respondents across all age groups reporting feelings of depression or hopelessness. Among older people, these figures were even higher, with 85% of those aged 50 and above expressing similar sentiments. Mental health awareness and community-based psychosocial support were identified as critical needs, particularly for older adults and individuals with disabilities.
Recommendations
The assessment calls for urgent actions to address these needs, including the provision of cash assistance tailored to older people, access to healthcare services, and the distribution of assistive products. It also recommends mental health awareness initiatives and targeted psychosocial support, recognizing the specific needs of older people during displacement. Ensuring inclusivity and addressing the unique challenges faced by this vulnerable demographic is paramount as Lebanon navigates this crisis.
Download: Lebanon: Rapid Needs Assessment of Displaced People, October 2024