Abstract
Objective
To understand the impact of social isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of institutionalized older adults, from the perspective of these residents.
Method
An exploratory-descriptive study with a qualitative approach was conducted in two LTCFs in the city of Divinópolis, Minas Gerais State, Brazil. A questionnaire was applied for identification, whereas for qualitative data analysis, a semi-structurednscript with guiding questions about self-perceptions of social isolation during the pandemic was employed. Content analysis was used, drawing on Dorothea Orem's theory.
Results
Thirteen older adults participated and the following thematic categories were identified: Feelings of the residents about social isolation amid the pandemic; Actions by residents to preserve mental and physical health during pandemic social isolation; Social isolation and physical inactivity as part of the lives of residents; COVID-19 viewed as trivial.
Conclusion
Social isolation caused by the pandemic had a negative impact on the mental health of the institutionalized older adults and revealed the fact that social isolation was already part of their daily lives.
Keywords
Elderly; Long-stay Institution for the Elderly; COVID-19; Mental Health; Nursing