Effects of the exposure of peruvian older adults to the infodemic on COVID-19: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Abstract Objective To examine the association between exposure to information about Covid-19 and the presence of physiological and emotional symptoms and substance use in older adults. Methods Quantitative and cross-sectional research with 387 older adults who responded to the web-based survey. Were used the instruments of demographic profile, the questionnaire of exposure to news and information related to the pandemic and, the Questionnaire for the Identification of Frequency of Physical and Emotional signs and symptoms and substance use. All statistical tests had a significance of p<0.05. Results There was a predominance of female participants with an average age of 70.1 years, living with a partner, with access to free health services and had a decrease in their economic income during the pandemic. There is a significant relationship between the time of exposure to the Internet and the media with the psychophysiological manifestations; the radio was related to digestive and nutritional problems and, talking to people around caused muscle pain. Conclusions and implications for practice exaggerated information about Covid-19 led to harmful physiological and emotional symptoms and behaviors; it is suggested to implement post-pandemic social interventions for health problems; use virtual tools and telemedicine in care; improve intergenerational support programs.