Problems and Distress Among Older Adults During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Author Information
Author(s): Aldwin Carolyn, Igarashi Heidi, Kurth Maria, Choun Soyoung
Primary Institution: Oregon State University
Hypothesis
Older adults may report better mental health and less stress than younger adults during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Conclusion
Older adults experienced a range of problems during the pandemic, with many reporting consistent difficulties over time.
Supporting Evidence
- 95% of respondents reported any problems during the pandemic.
- 76% of respondents described consistent types of difficulties over time.
- 28% reported problems with everyday protective activities.
- 18% reported issues with social connections.
- 17% expressed psychological distress.
Takeaway
Older people had a lot of problems during COVID-19, but they often didn't show it as much as younger people.
Methodology
Longitudinal qualitative analysis of weekly COVID-related problems from internet surveys over an eight-week period.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the qualitative nature of the study and reliance on internet surveys.
Limitations
The study relied on self-reported data, which may be subject to under-reporting of mental health symptoms.
Participant Demographics
Participants ranged in age from 55-95, with a mean age of 71.34; 74% were female, 89% white, and 54% had a bachelor's degree or higher.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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