Implications of the period of the COVID-19 pandemic on the elderly population in the city of Santos from 2020 to 2021

Abstract

The objective of this study was to gather data regarding vaccination and deaths related to COVID-19 of the elderly population living in Santos in the years 2020 and 2021 and, through the application of an adapted quality of life assessment scale and listening to the elderly over 60 years of age living in a Long-Term Care Institution located in the Ponta da Praia neighborhood, investigate an alleged relationship between the results collected and the pandemic period related to the Coronavirus experienced. Regarding vaccinations, according to data collected in July 2022, 1,148,207 doses were administered in total. As for deaths, between March and December 2020, 843 were recorded, and between January and December 2021, 979. The survey was carried out with an exploratory purpose using an evaluator scale, whose results were analyzed qualitatively. A total of 10 individuals of both genders were interviewed, 6 males and 4 females whose age range was established from the age of 60 years. The results revealed little variation between averages and specifically low impact related to COVID-19. Complaints about physical health, autonomy, and social relationships were raised.