What is it about?

This study explores how 20 older Israeli adults experienced forced displacement from their homes near the Gaza border following the traumatic events of October 7, 2023. It focuses on the emotional and practical challenges they faced, how they coped, and the sources of support they relied on.

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Why is it important?

As wars and humanitarian crises displace growing numbers of older adults worldwide, research on their experiences remains limited. This study shows that older adults may experience severe distress while also finding ways to cope and remain resilient. The findings can help improve both immediate and long-term support for displaced older adults by addressing emotional needs and strengthening family and community ties.

Perspectives

The events of October 7 affected me deeply. As a researcher in aging and migration, I felt it was important to document the experiences of older adults who had been forcibly and traumatically displaced, especially because research on this issue remains limited. This was the most emotionally difficult study I have conducted, yet I was deeply impressed by the psychological strength many participants showed. I hope this article helps readers understand the devastating human cost of war and the remarkable inner strength of older adults. I also hope that giving their voices greater visibility will contribute to more respectful and responsive policy and practice. Working with experienced colleagues in aging and trauma made this difficult study especially meaningful.

Pnina Dolberg
Ruppin Academic Center

Read the Original

This page is a summary of: “It’s a very hard lesson, but still a lesson”: Trauma, coping, and resilience among older adults displaced in wartime., American Journal of Orthopsychiatry, July 2026, American Psychological Association (APA),
DOI: 10.1037/ort0000950.
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