FC52: Post-pandemic Characterization of Social Isolation and Perception of Loneliness in a Group of Chilean older people

Abstract

Introduction: This study explores the psychological effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on elderly Chileans, focusing on the role of social isolation (SI), loneliness, depressive symptoms, and pandemic-related concerns. With 150 participants, our cross-sectional descriptive study revealed significant relationships between SI, loneliness, depressive symptoms, and gender differences in their experiences. Despite no longer being in a restrictive phase of the pandemic, the findings highlight the interconnectedness of these factors and their ongoing impact on the mental health of the elderly population.

Methods: Utilizing a cross-sectional descriptive design, this research involved 150 elderly participants from Santiago, Chile. We assessed SI, loneliness, depressive symptoms, and pandemic-related concerns using the Steptoe Social Isolation Index, the Three-item UCLA Loneliness Scale, the Yesavage Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-15), and a Likert scale for pandemic concern, respectively. Statistical analyses were conducted using JAMOVI 2.36, employing chi-square tests, U-Mann Whitney tests, and Spearman correlations.

Results: Our findings indicate a significant portion of participants experienced SI (42%) and loneliness (26%), with women showing higher frequencies of loneliness and depressive symptoms. Significant correlations were found between SI and loneliness, and both were closely linked to depressive symptoms. Interestingly, a significant negative correlation was observed between pandemic-related concerns and loneliness, suggesting an active coping mechanism among the elderly.