COVID-19 Pandemic and Posttraumatic Growth in Residents of a Continuing Care Retirement Community: A Mixed Methods Study

Abstract

Purpose: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic impacted life for older adults living in residential settings, affecting their psychosocial well-being. Risk for COVID-19 is associated with increasing age and pre-existing health conditions. The current study aimed to describe the challenges of COVID-19 and post-traumatic growth (PTG) for residents of a continuing care retirement community (CCRC) in South Florida. Method: A parallel mixed methods approach was used to explore the experience of older adults with PTG. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis to identify emergent themes. Results: Ninety-eight older adults living in a single CCRC completed a survey. Age ranged from 67 to 99 years (mean age = 86 years), with >90% identifying as non-Hispanic White and female (78%). Using the PTG theoretical framework, experiences were categorized into five dimensions: new possibilities, relating to others, personal strength, spiritual growth, and appreciation for life. Conclusion: The current study focused on the challenges and growth experienced by older adults, as framed by PTG theory. Findings shed light on the capacity of this demographic, with an average age of 86 years, to overcome obstacles and achieve PTG. [ Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 50 (6), 25–33.]