MENTAL STATUS OVERVIEW IN THE ELDERLY DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC: A PHYLOSOPHICAL PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

ABSTRACTBackgroundDuring the Covid-19 pandemic, there was a change in the mental status of the elderly, namely anxiety disorders and depression. It is important to know the mental status of the elderly and the role of effective communication because elderly people are easily infected with Covid-19. Therefore, it is necessary to carry out early detection in basic health services.ObjectiveTo know the description of the mental status of the elderly during the Covid-19 pandemic.MethodNon-experimental quantitative design through a descriptive survey approach. The sample size is 202 people using quota sampling technique. Collecting data through home visits and implementing Covid-19 health protocols. The instruments used were the Geriatric Depression Scale 15 (Cronbach’s alpha 0.75) and the Geriatric Anxiety Scale (Cronbach’s alpha 0.93).ResultsThere were 50.0% did not experience depression and 44.6% had mild depression. Although small, there is a small proportion of respondents experiencing moderate depression as much as 4.5% and 1.0% experiencing severe depression. There are 77.2% experiencing mild anxiety. A total of 21.8% experienced moderate anxiety. Although a small proportion, there are respondents experiencing severe anxiety as much as 1%.ConclusionDuring the Covid-19 pandemic, most of the elderly experienced a change in mental status.SuggestionHealth workers are expected to carry out early detection of changes in mental status in the elderly.