Older adults’ experiences of social distancing and the role of the community center during COVID-19
Quality in Ageing and Older Adults
ISSN: 1471-7794
Article publication date: 4 February 2022
Issue publication date: 28 June 2022
Abstract
Purpose
Although very much needed from an infection control perspective, there is deep concern about the impact of social distancing during COVID-19, particularly on older adults.
Design/methodology/approach
A phenomenological design was used to gain insight into older adults’ experiences of living with social distancing during the first wave of COVID-19. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight older adults.
Findings
Six themes were identified: a smaller life, feelings of unease, resilience, connection to the community centre, technology: a boon, but one with limitations, and the way through social distancing.
Originality/value
This study captures older adults’ experiences early in COVID-19. Findings indicate that there is much we can learn from these older adults regarding social isolation that could apply to other older adults and potentially other age groups during the time of pandemic and beyond.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
NSERC College and Community Social Innovation Fund Applied Research Rapid Response to COVID-19.Grant number: COVPJ 552320 – 20.
Citation
Wolman, L., Atack, L., Khan, S., Zwicker, S., Dela Cruz, C., Roy, L. and Arbeid, E. (2022), "Older adults’ experiences of social distancing and the role of the community center during COVID-19", Quality in Ageing and Older Adults, Vol. 23 No. 2, pp. 42-53. https://doi.org/10.1108/QAOA-01-2021-0005
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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