Social Isolation In The COVID-19 Pandemic – Is Maintaining Social Connections Online A Viable Option For All Older Persons: Insights From Singapore

Abstract

Objectives: At the time of COVID-19 and the control measures emphasizing physical distancing and staying at home, social isolation of older persons is of concern. A possible approach to address this is through the use of technology by older persons, in particular internet-based communication methods, to maintain social connections. In order to help inform such approaches, we explore pre-COVID-19 differences in the risk of social isolation, regular use of devices that enable internet access and use of technology for social connections across subgroups of older persons in Singapore. Methods: We analyze data from Transitions in Health, Employment, Social Engagement and Intergenerational Transfers in Singapore Study, a national study of older persons, collected in 2019. Results: Older persons at higher ages, those with lower levels of education, in worse health and financially worse off are at a higher risk of social isolation as well as have lower proportions of regular use of devices and technology for social connections. We also find that older persons at risk of social isolation are substantially less likely to use devices and technology for social connections. Discussion: The disparity in the risk of social isolation and the use of devices and technology for social connections among older persons implies older person subgroups whose social connectedness may be disproportionately affected in the COVID-19 pandemic. We highlight that concerted, patient, and repeated efforts by the government, family, and older persons themselves may help bridge the disparity in technology use among older persons and make specific recommendations.