This study aims to provide the fundamental data in discovering the solutions for the enhancement of mental health and ability of the elderly population through examining the relationship between metal health issues and social factors which the elderly population in Korea face in the COVID-19 Pandemic. The data were gathered through the analysis of 150 responses from the elderly welfare center users by conducting face-to-face surveys. The main findings of the study are as follows: First, it was found that the elderly, before COVID-19 pandemic, had most engagement in hobbies, leisure, exercise programs, social gatherings, alumni associations, and mutual aid groups. Second, regarding the impact of COVID-19 on the mental health and social-related factors, the biggest fear of the elders was the fear of intra-household infections, and loneliness, anxiety, and depression did not show a relatively high result. However, there is a positive correlation between the variables themselves. Third, for the impact of COVID-19 on the daily life of the elderly, responses revealed that their social and leisure activities were being limited the most, and the social support perceived by the elderly was somewhat low. Furthermore, while the satisfaction with one's life was observed to be high, the response to the question "if born again, would you choose to live as it is now?" showed the lowest positive answer. Fourth, the social support for the elderly and the participation of elderly's group showed a positive correlation with life satisfaction, and a negative correlation with fear, loneliness, depression, and anxiety. In conclusion, as a practical alternative in improving life satisfaction of the elderly who are vulnerable in the COVID-19 pandemic, the study suggests leisure support through online media and establishing crisis management system for mental health by linking and mobilizing health and welfare resources of the local communities. Finally, the study concludes by suggesting the necessity of subsequent studies and its implications that supplement the limitations of this study.
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