Prevalence and Predictors of Depression, Anxiety and Stress among Elderly in the aftermath of COVID-19: A Quantitative Study from Central India

Abstract

ABSTRACTBackgroundElderly persons have been more prone to depression, anxiety and stress during COVID-19 pandemic. They need more care and support towards mental health during these difficult times.MethodologyThis was a cross-sectional and quantitative study conducted in the state of Madhya Pradesh, during the month of March 2021 to August 2021. Participants were recruited from a population aged more than 60 years, those who were able to read and write Hindi/English or having at least one family member; reporting to a tertiary care teaching hospital during the second wave of COVID-19 in India. Those who were confirmed COVID-19 cases & undergoing treatment, with diagnosed mental health disorders and who didn’t give consent were excluded. A semi-structured questionnaire along with DASS-21 scale was completed by participants online.ResultsOut of 690 subjects, 7.25% had mild and moderate depression, 0.58% had severe and extremely severe depression. Mild and moderate anxiety symptoms were reported by 9.56%, 2.46% reported severe and extremely severe anxiety. Mild and moderate stress was reported by 4.78%, while 0.42% were severely and extremely stressed. A positive statistical association was found between alcohol addiction and depression (p=0.028). The elderly subjects had a nap the day time were significantly less depressed during COVID-19 pandemic (p=0.033). It was found that older the subjects, more were they anxious during the pandemic (p=0.042). An association was found between alcohol addiction and stress (p=0.043).ConclusionsDepressive symptoms in participants were positively correlated with alcohol addiction. Females reported higher level of stress. There is a felt need to formulate psychological interventions for elderly to improve their mental health and psychological resilience. We need to tackle and fight the stigma, fear and anxiety related to the COVID-19, which is greater than disease itself.Key messageWhat is already knownPsychological problems like anxiety, depressive symptoms, fearfulness, a state of uncertainty and stress are common in all age groups; furthermore older adults are more prone to develop mental health issues in wake of stressful situations.What this study adds toAbout one fourth of elderly developed anxiety, depression and stress during the COVID-19 pandemic.Effect on practice and policyThere is a need for proactive identification through screening of elderly for mental health issues following unprecedented stress like COVID-19 pandemic.