Getting Along During COVID-19: Older Adults’ Stress and Coping

Abstract

ABSTRACT Older adults have been at greater risk for developing severe illness as a result of COVID-19. The intense shift toward a six-foot-distancing and orders to shelter-in-place was found to result in social isolation, potentially deteriorating the overall well-being of older adults. This study was to identify and categorize stress and coping strategies of older adults in the context of COVID-19. Using the Q-methodology, data were collected in partnership with a local community center from 40 participants (N = 40) aged 65 and older. Participants had a mean age of 73 (SD = 9.27); nearly all were female (85%), most (95%) were White, and over half lived alone (58%). Based on the results, participants were categorized into two factors (groups) using by-person factor analysis. Group one was found to adapt to a new routine despite feeling alone. Group two relied largely on religion and behavioral disengagement. Even with the homogenous sample, findings suggest an increased need for services in community centers, church groups, and assisted livings. Furthermore, future research ought to consider stress and coping strategies among men and/or persons of color, as findings from this study may have significant practice and policy implications.