Consequences of The Covid-19 Epidemic On The Lives of Older People: A Qualitative Study In Different Living Environments

Introduction: Measures and restrictions to prevent, spread and control the Covid-19 epidemic have affected the lives of each individual. The purpose of the study was to investigate in detail in older people the consequences of measures and limitations of the epidemic in various areas of their lives. Methods: The research was based on a qualitative approach. The data were obtained through a semi-structured interview. Ten interviews with older people were conducted in January 2021, five were in the home environment and five in institutional care organizations. Results: The results of the study show that older people feel the consequences of measures and limitations of the epidemic in various areas of life. We find that in the elderly, the greatest consequences due to the measures and restrictions of Covid-19 were perceived in the field of the leisure activities, which were significantly changed and limited during this time. The consequences were shown in the area of contact with people. Fear of ignorance, loneliness and isolation were also perceived in the elderly, mainly due to the consequences of limited contact with relatives and friends. Discussion and conclusions: We can conclude that measures and restrictions in preventing, spreading and controlling Covid-19 epidemic have significantly affected the lives of older people in the home environment and in institutional care. Older people were not prepared for this way of life and above all, they lived in fear due to unpredictable situations, because of the provided media content, which further aroused a feeling of fear and ignorance.