The paradox of social distancing: Implications for older adults in the context of COVID-19

Psychol Trauma. 2020 Aug;12(S1):S214-S216. doi: 10.1037/tra0000845. Epub 2020 Jun 11.

Abstract

Loneliness and social isolation have tangible effects on mental and physical health, particularly for older adults. Individuals over the age of 60 may be uniquely at risk of experiencing the impact of loneliness. Social distancing, an intervention intended to protect at-risk individuals such as older adults, may in fact introduce further complications to the health and well-being of older adults, who find themselves more isolated secondary to the pandemic. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved).

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Ageism / psychology*
  • Aging / psychology*
  • COVID-19
  • Coronavirus Infections* / prevention & control
  • Humans
  • Infection Control*
  • Loneliness*
  • Pandemics* / prevention & control
  • Pneumonia, Viral* / prevention & control
  • Social Isolation*