What should you do if your elderly loved ones are in danger? How can you calm them, support them, prepare them for evacuation, or at least help them get through a peak moment of anxiety — especially when the situation rapidly escalates?

The Save Ukraine team works every day with people fleeing the war. Among them are many elderly and low-mobility individuals who are facing fear and uncertainty alone. We know how painful and overwhelming this moment can be — and how vital it is to know that you’re not alone.

Your calmness is the best support. Older people are especially sensitive to stress, so in a crisis, it’s essential they find comfort in familiar routines, stability, and simple daily conversations. Explain what’s happening without overwhelming details. Don’t try to convince or pressure them — just be there, listen, and let them speak. Sometimes, just being heard can bring a sense of relief.

Even if evacuation still feels far off, it’s better to be prepared. Gather the essentials: ID, pension documents, medical records. Prepare a 2–3 week supply of medications and write down the names and dosages. Pack warm clothing, a favorite scarf, photo, or book — something familiar that provides comfort, even on the road. And don’t forget to write down key phone numbers — family members and the Save Ukraine hotline.

If the situation suddenly worsens, you lose contact with your loved ones, or you’re unsure where to turn — take action. We’ve already helped hundreds of families, and we won’t leave you behind. We can help you navigate the next steps, find local contacts, reestablish communication, or even arrange evacuation. Sometimes a single message can truly save a life.

“When the shelling began, we couldn’t reach our grandmother. We contacted Save Ukraine — and got a response the same day. They helped us reconnect and organize her evacuation. Within a few days, she was safe,” — shares Olena.

We thank our partners Aktion Deutschland Hilft and LandsAid for their ongoing support, which enables us to save lives every day.