Roza is rebuilding her life after devastating floods

A total of 33 million people were affected by devastating flooding in Pakistan in 2022. Over 1,700 lost their lives and over 12,000 were injured, with one-third of the country under water – an area almost the size of Great Britain. Entire villages were swept away, with two million acres of crops affected and nearly 800,000 livestock lost.

“My name is Roza, I am 63 years old, and my close-knit family includes my 70-year-old husband, two married sons, a daughter, and many grandchildren. We all support each other.

Previously, we had been agropastoralists (a system of farming that combines crop cultivation and animal husbandry) but today, sadly, nothing can be planted as the farming land has dried up. Today my family is displaced from our original village to a camp.”

The impact of the 2022 floods on local communities

Since the floods, many older people have struggled with the aftermath of the crisis. But now older people in Pakistan are being helped by local organisations to rebuild their lives. There is greater access to mental health support and medical care for older people with disabilities and health conditions.

Roza’s hearing aid

“My world had slowly fallen silent due to my hearing loss brought on by ageing. I had found it difficult to take part in the life around me.

Thanks to a local organisation, older people like me, who have been impacted by the floods and subsequent drought, have been assessed and were able to receive assistive products to help with everyday life.

I was delighted to receive a hearing aid, enabling me once again to take part in family activities and resume my role as the mentor in the family.

My hearing aid has not only restored my hearing, but it has become a beacon of hope for our entire community. I believe my journey illustrates the power of resilience in my community.”

Roza’s husband told us: “I used to worry that Roza felt left out during family gatherings and conversations. Now, with her hearing aid, she’s the life of our family, sharing stories and laughter with everyone.”

Roza having her hearing aid fitted

As we age, we are more likely to experience a life-changing disability. Roza’s story shows just how much impact getting the right help and support can make to an older person who would otherwise feel isolated and unable to participate in the community around them. Thanks to the support of the Grandparents United community, more older people, can get the assistive products they need to live their lives to their fullest again.