Biopsychosocial Needs of Elderly Individuals in Prolonged Social Isolation During the COVID-19 Outbreak: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Background: As countries are affected by COVID-19, the elderly population will be told to self-isolate for "a very long time" in Turkey and a lot of countries. The aim of study was to evaluate the biopsychosocial needs of elderly individuals in the COVID-19 outbreak. Methods: In this qualitative research in-depth interviewwas used. A total of 20 participants aged 65 and over were interviewed. The interviews went on until no new data was obtained. All interviews were recorded digitally and the records were transcribed and coded by two independent researchers, who identified major themes by relevance. Results: According to the in-depth interviews with elderly: all elderly people were exposed to fear and anxiety in this process and elderly living in rural areas were found to be less biopsychosocially affected by the pandemic process and it was observed that most elderly people were afraid to apply to health centers during pandemic even if they have a disease condition. The majority of the participants stated that they did not meet anyone outside the home during this period. Conclusion: It is of great importance to evaluate these people within the framework of the biopsychosocial approach. Our study confirmed this need with in-depth interviews with the elderly. We are concerned about the effects of the curfew on elderly people appropriate;effective campaigns should be done to promote healthy life behaviors and physiological needs of them. Copyright (C) 2021, Taiwan Society of Geriatric Emergency & Critical Care Medicine.