Impact of Altered Routines on Social and Mental Health Among Older Adults During COVID-19
Author Information
Author(s): Finlay Jessica, Kobayashi Lindsay, Milan Rebecca, Sagehorn Mallory, Bowman Grace, Perera Rohini
Primary Institution: University of Colorado Boulder
Hypothesis
How have changes in daily routines during the COVID-19 pandemic affected the social and mental health of older adults?
Conclusion
Changes in social routines during the pandemic were linked to increased anxiety, depression, and loneliness among older adults.
Supporting Evidence
- 52% of participants reported significant changes in their social routines.
- Changes in social routines were significantly correlated with increased anxiety, depression, and loneliness.
- Qualitative findings indicated that fear of infection led to withdrawal from community spaces.
Takeaway
Older adults had to change their daily routines because of COVID-19, and this made many of them feel more anxious, sad, and lonely.
Methodology
Mixed methods study using surveys and thematic analysis of participant responses.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the self-reported nature of the surveys and the demographic homogeneity of participants.
Limitations
The study primarily included Non-Hispanic White participants, which may limit the generalizability of the findings.
Participant Demographics
Participants were predominantly Non-Hispanic White (93%), female (71%), and college-educated (86%).
Statistical Information
P-Value
p=0.02
Statistical Significance
p<0.01
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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