Author:
Briere Jennifer,Wang Sophia Haotong,Khanam Ulfat Ara,Lawson Josh,Goodridge Donna
Abstract
Abstract
Background
The far-reaching health and social sequelae of the COVID-19 pandemic among older adults have the potential to negatively impact both quality of life (QoL) and well-being, in part because of increased risks of loneliness and social isolation. The aim of this study was to examine predictors of QoL and well-being among Canadian older adults within the context of the pandemic, including loneliness and social isolation.
Methods
This cross-sectional, online survey recruited older adult participants through community organizations and research participant panels. Measures included the: Older People’s Quality of Life Scale-B, WHO-5, DeJong Gierveld Loneliness Scale, Lubben Social Network Scale and five COVID-19 specific items assessing impact on loneliness and social isolation. Multiple linear regression models were used to adjust for potential confounders.
Results
A total of 2,207 older Canadians (55.7% female, with a mean age of 69.4 years) responded to the survey. Over one-third strongly disagreed that the pandemic had had a significant effect on either their mental (35.0%) or physical health (37.6%). Different patterns of predictors were apparent for QoL and well-being. After adjusting for all variables in the models, the ability of income to meet needs emerged as the strongest predictor of higher QoL, but was not associated with well-being, except for those who chose not to disclose their income adequacy. Age was not associated with either QoL or well-being. Females were more likely to experience lower well-being (β=-2.0, 95% C.I. =-4.0,-0.03), but not QoL. Reporting three or more chronic health conditions and that the COVID-19 pandemic had a negative impact on mental health was associated with lower QoL and well-being. Loneliness was a predictor of reduced QoL (β=-1.4, 95% C.I. =--1.6, -1.2) and poor well-being (β=-3.7, 95% C.I. =-4.3,-3.0). A weak association was noted between QoL and social isolation.
Conclusions
The COVID-19 pandemic is associated with differential effects among older adults. In particular, those with limited financial resources and those with multiple chronic conditions may be at more risk to suffer adverse QoL and well-being consequences. Loneliness may be a modifiable risk factor for decreased QoL and well-being amenable to targeted interventions.
Funder
Canadian Institute of Health Research
Publisher
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Subject
Geriatrics and Gerontology
Reference84 articles.
1. Statistics Canada. COVID-19 in Canada: A two-year update on social and economic impacts. https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/pub/11-631-x/11-631-x2022001-eng.htm. Accessed 28 Feb 2023.
2. Wister AV, Kadowski L. Social isolation among older adults during the pandemic. Cat. No.:Em12-82/2021E-pdf. https://www.canada.ca/content/dam/canada/employment-social-development/corporate/seniors/forum/covid-19-social-isolation/covid-19-social-isolation-en.pdf. Accessed 28 Feb 2023.
3. Brankston G, Merkley E, Fisman DN, Tuite AR, Poljak Z, Loewen PJ, et al. Sociodemographic disparities in knowledge, practices, and ability to comply with COVID-19 public health measures in Canada. Can J Public Health. 2021;112:363–75.
4. Jehn A, Stackhouse M, Zajacova A. COVID-19 health precautions: identifying demographic and socio-economic disparities over time. Can Public Pol. 2021;47:252–64.
5. Krendl AC, Perry BL. The impact of sheltering in place during the COVID-19 pandemic on older adults’ social and mental well-being J gerontol, Series B; Pscyhol Sci Soc Sci 2020; e53–8.