The elderly biologically experience an aging process that reduces physical endurance and health, making them susceptible to disease. In fact, as a country that has entered the aging population category, the number of elderly people in Indonesia is very large, reaching 29.3 million people in 2021 with a significant increase in the number. Nearly half of the total elderly have high socio-demographic vulnerability and morbidity as well as limited economic conditions. The elderly are very vulnerable to exposure to COVID-19 and experience a significant impact of the pandemic with the highest proportion of deaths, mainly due to co-morbidities. The pandemic 'forced' the elderly to limit their mobility and socio-economic activities, causing many problems for this vulnerable group, especially access to health facilities and services, fulfillment of basic needs, and daily social activities. The elderly need support from their families and communities as well as the government so they can adapt to the changes that have occurred due to the disruption of this pandemic. In the context of the demographic bonus, efforts to protect the elderly are also urgently needed so that they do not become a burden for their families who are still productive, especially for families with limited economic conditions. This article aims to discuss the importance of social protection for the elderly based on lessons learned from the experiences of the elderly in dealing with the impact of COVID-19. Protection for the elderly is focused on supporting the provision of their specific needs, particularly related to health conditions, religious/worship/spiritual activities, and other social activities. Social protection and support for the elderly is very important and urgent to do. Thus, this vulnerable group can increase their preparedness and adapt to new normal conditions after the disruption of the COVID-19 pandemic. This article is based on the results of research in Bekasi City and Malang Regency in 2022 using a qualitative approach using open interview and FGD techniques. Data was also collected through desk reviews of relevant books, articles and documents.