Living Alone During COVID-19: Social Contact and Emotional Well-being Among Older Adults

Abstract

Objective The COVID-19 outbreak and associated physical distancing measures altered the social world for most older adults, but people who live alone may have been disproportionately affected. The current study examined how living alone was associated with daily social contact and emotional well-being among older adults during the pandemic. Method Adults (N = 226) aged 69+ completed a brief survey assessing their living situation, social contact with different social partners (in person, by phone, electronically), and emotions during the morning, afternoon and evening the prior day. Results Older adults who live alone were less likely to see others in person or to receive or provide help. Living alone was associated with more positive emotions concurrent with in-person contact. In contrast, phone contact was associated with higher levels of negative affect among those living alone, but not among those who live with others. Older adults who live alone were more likely to have contact with friends (rather than family). Discussion Findings suggest older adults who live alone may be more reactive to social contact during the COVID-19 outbreak than older adults who reside with others. In-person contact may confer distinct benefits not available via telephone contact, suggesting that possible interventions during the pandemic may work best with safe forms of in-person contact, possibly with non-family members.

When Social Interaction Backfires: Frequent Social Interaction During the COVID-19 Pandemic Is Associated With Decreased Well-Being and Higher Panic Buying

“…For instance, living conditions (e.g., living alone, with family, or in a shared flat) and marital status might have affected the well-being and stress during the quarantine period. However, recent studies conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic reported that subjective loneliness but not living alone was associated with mental health ( Cabello et al, 2021 ) and living alone did not necessarily harm well-being for older adults ( Fingerman et al, 2021 ), unless diagnosed with dementia or mild cognitive impairment ( Hashimoto et al, 2020 ).…”

COVID-19 and Its Implications on Social Engagement, Physical Activity, and Psychological Well-Being for Older Adults with Alzheimer’s Disease: A Systematic Review

“…Nevertheless, multiple strategies have been established to counteract the effects of loneliness and social isolation. Amongst them include engaging in phone calls with friends which has been shown to improve emotional and social well-being amongst older adults [35]. Others have also attempted to cope by frequently employing self-enhancing comparisons (ie.…”

Daily Social Life of Older Adults and Vulnerabilities During the COVID-19 Pandemic

“…In addition, reduced material resources and restricted social contact due to the pandemic-induced recession and containment measures have considerably disrupted the lives of older adults and generated tremendous stress and psychological burden. Indeed, a growing literature study has demonstrated the staggering, negative effects of COVID-19 on the mental well-being of older adults worldwide (5)(6)(7). As such, protecting older adults from being infected and promoting their mental well-being is of paramount importance.…”