Abstract
Concerns have been raised regarding middle-aged and older adults’ mental health during the coronavirus outbreak. The aim of the current study was to characterise associations between internet use (frequency and purpose), depression symptoms and Quality of Life (QoL) during the pandemic, in individuals aged 55–75. Data (N = 3491) were drawn from the English longitudinal study of ageing (ELSA) cohort study collected in June/July 2020 (while social distancing measures were in place). Associations with frequency of use were tested using analysis of covariance (ANCOVAS), controlling for covariates such as wealth and education. Type of internet use (for communication, information search) was also analysed amongst frequent users. Significant effects of frequency of use were observed (p = 0.01 for depression, p < 0.001 for QoL), with lower depression symptoms and higher QoL scores amongst more frequent users. Regarding purpose of use, those who reported using the internet for communication purposes had higher QoL. However, use for health-related or Government services information searching was associated with more depression symptoms. Results provide important information regarding the potential benefits of internet use for middle-aged and older people, suggesting that strategies to increase internet usage (particularly for communication) might benefit middle-aged and older adults’ mental health and counter isolation as the coronavirus crisis continues to evolve.
Highlights
The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has had profound psychological and social consequences on populations globally
Social participation has a well-documented association with mental health and Quality of Life (QoL) in older adults [1]
While there is some evidence to suggest that older adults have proven more resilient than initially feared [4], investigations into the effects of lockdown and social isolation on mental health should be prioritised [5], to inform strategies that promote wellbeing as the situation evolves and further lockdowns may be required
Summary
The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has had profound psychological and social consequences on populations globally. Concerns have been raised regarding middle-aged and older adults’ mental health, given that loneliness and isolation would be exacerbated as lockdown measures were implemented. Social participation has a well-documented association with mental health and Quality of Life (QoL) in older adults [1]. The closing of community organisations and limits on visits from family members will have undoubtedly impacted levels of social participation amongst middle-aged and older people. A review of studies into the impact of COVID-19 lockdowns on mental health in older adults [2] found that of eight crosssectional studies reviewed, six reported negative effects including higher depression and loneliness. A greater reduction in social contacts due to lockdown measures has been associated with higher mental health complaints [3]. While there is some evidence to suggest that older adults have proven more resilient than initially feared [4], investigations into the effects of lockdown and social isolation on mental health should be prioritised [5], to inform strategies that promote wellbeing as the situation evolves and further lockdowns may be required
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