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'Make the Most of the Situation'. Older Adults' Experiences during COVID-19: A Longitudinal, Qualitative Study.

Emily BrooksSomayyeh MohammadiWilliam Ben MortensonCatherine L BackmanChihori TsukuraIsabelle RashJanice ChanWilliam Cameron Miller
Published in: Journal of applied gerontology : the official journal of the Southern Gerontological Society (2022)
The COVID-19 pandemic restrictions have been associated with increased social isolation and reduced participation in older adults. This longitudinal qualitative study drew on life course theory to analyse data from a series of four sequential semi-structured interviews conducted between May 2020-February 2021 with adults aged 65+ (<i>n</i> = 12) to explore older adults' experiences adjusting to the COVID-19 pandemic. We identified three themes: (1) <i>Struggling</i> 'You realize how much you lost' describes how older adults lost freedoms, social connections and activities; (2) <i>Adapting</i> 'whatever happens, happens, I'll do my best', revealing how older adults tried to maintain well-being, participation and connection; and (3) <i>Appreciating</i> 'enjoy what you have', exploring how older adults found pleasure and contentment. Engagement in meaningful activities and high-quality social interactions supported well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic for older adults. This finding highlights the need for policies and services to promote engagement during longstanding global crises.
Keyphrases
  • physical activity
  • mental health
  • healthcare
  • primary care
  • social media
  • public health
  • electronic health record
  • big data