Population

Download our list of Resources on COVID-19 and older persons

The COVID-19 pandemic has moved older persons to the centre of attention. Based on the evidence so far, people over the age of 65 are at higher risk than younger age groups of developing severe symptoms and dying from COVID-19. The measures implemented across the UNECE region to slow down the spread of the novel coronavirus through social distancing while increasing capacities of health care systems to treat the growing numbers of patients are essential for the protection of older persons. Intergenerational solidarity has become more important than ever to ensure that social distancing measures do not lead to increased social isolation, loneliness and neglect and that access to essential services and support is maintained and enhanced.

During this time of crisis, collaboration between countries, and between governments, private sector and civil society actors, as well as individuals is key to addressing the extraordinary challenges we now face. Solidarity and creativity in finding new ways of supporting each other give rise to innovate solutions, new forms of intergenerational and intragenerational support.

Read more about COVID-19 and Older Persons

• List of resources on COVID-19 and older persons developed by international organisation, research networks and civil society partners in the UNECE region (we will keep updating it)
• Policy Brief on Older Persons in Emergency Situations (November 2020)
• Report and presentation of 2020 Policy Seminar on Older Persons in Emergency Situations: lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic (November 2020)