The impact of coronavirus on mental health and welfare of the elderly

Abstract

Extreme distancing during quarantine and social isolation in periods of serious infections, such as COVID-19, affected society and the social life of the population worldwide, changing cultural habits while it was found to be associated with mental and social health problems such as depression and anxiety. It was found that the elderly is the portion of the population that is at greater risk in the COVID-19 epidemic and if they get sick, they have a greater risk of dying. This group is particularly vulnerable to infections due to a weakened immune system, comorbidities, including respiratory diseases, hypertension, diabetes and coronary heart disease. The balance that has been accomplished in the past between age-related disorders and good quality of life and health is now under high pressure. It is therefore very important to protect the elderly and if isolation can reduce the transmission of the disease and save their lives, it should be implemented, in order to maintain their quality of life as much as possible. Compliance with the instructions and recommendations of the WHO and other national, regional, international organizations can significantly reduce the risk of spreading the disease. This study examines the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the elderly and how this disease has affected their mental health and well-being. Our goal is also to comprehend the factors associated with depressive symptoms in older people during the disease.