The elderly from kibbutzim evacuated from both the Gaza envelope and the north of Israel have endured—and continue to endure—profound trauma following the events of October 7. Many have suffered the loss of family members, the destruction of their communities, prolonged displacement, and ongoing uncertainty about their future.

This population includes Holocaust survivors and second-generation survivors—individuals who, after overcoming the devastation of World War II, invested their lives in building the state of Israel with unwavering commitment and ideology. Now, they face a renewed rupture—this time affecting not only their own lives, but also those of their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Some have been murdered, kidnapped, killed in action, or displaced from their homes. Even a year after the October 7 massacre, many continue to live in a state of existential threat.

These circumstances have created an exceptionally sensitive situation. The elderly naturally experience heightened anxiety, which is intensified by the collapse of their personal, familial, and communal resilience. Many also grapple with a deep sense of helplessness—feeling unable to protect themselves or their loved ones.