Study: Mental health of people over 50 declined during lockout

Elderly mental health declined during the Covid-19 lockout because their loneliness contributed to an increase in anxiety and depression, according to a study.

Researchers at the University of Exeter and King’s College London studied data from more than 3,000 people over 50.

They said loneliness has emerged as a key feature linked to worsening symptoms of depression and anxiety.

And a decrease in physical activity since the onset of the pandemic was also associated with worsening symptoms of depression and anxiety. Women were also more likely to struggle with their mental health, as people had retired.

Dr Byron Creese at the University of Exeter, who led the study, said: “Even before the spread of the disease, loneliness and physical activity were a major issue in society, especially among the elderly.

“Our study allowed us to compare mental health symptoms before and after Covid-19 in a large group of people aged 50 and over.

“We found that, during lockouts, loneliness and reduced physical activity are associated with increased symptoms of poor mental health, particularly depression.

“It is now vital that we build on this data to find new ways to reduce mental health risk through pandemics.”

The study before the isolated pandemic found two symptoms of depression for at least several days over the previous two weeks.

At the time of lockout, lone individuals reported either an increase in the frequency of depressive symptoms, to more than half the days in two weeks, or a new symptom for at least several days in that period. In non-lone individuals, levels of depressive symptoms were not affected.

Professor Clive Ballard at the University of Exeter said: “We are only just beginning to learn the impact of Covid-19 on the health and wellbeing of older people.

“For example, there may not have been any economic impact yet.

“Our large-scale study will take several years, and will help us to understand some of the long-term effects of Covid-19 on mental health and wellbeing, and ultimately, whether this has a lasting impact. on aspects of aging, such as brain activity and memory. ”

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