Psychological reactions to the coronavirus pandemic: a comparative study of Holocaust survivors and other older adults in Israel

Abstract

Background The current study examines psychological reactions to the COVID-19 pandemic among older adults living in Israel. Based on the ‘life events, stress, coping and health theory,’ we hypothesized that due to their traumatic early life history and dearth of emotional and physical coping resources, Holocaust survivors would be more vulnerable than other older adults to the negative effects of this difficult and prolonged life event on their mental health. Methods Based on structured questionnaires with closed questions, we interviewed 306 Holocaust survivors and non-survivors aged 75 + during the COVID-19 pandemic. Results Univariate data analysis showed that Holocaust survivors had fewer coping resources in terms of health status and educational level than non-survivors. As expected, Holocaust survivors also reported a greater extent of COVID-19-related anxiety, and more depression, which worsened during the pandemic. However, both groups did not differ in their will to live, which is an indicator of general well-being and commitment to continue living. In multivariate analyses conducted to explain COVID-19 anxiety in the entire sample and separately on each of the two groups, the best explanatory variables were other psychological variables especially increased depression. Conclusions It seems that Holocaust survivors are more emotionally vulnerable to the pandemic’s negative effects than other older adults, in support of the ‘life events, stress, coping and health theory,’ but despite this, they show resilience in their will to continue living. Policy makers and practitioners are recommended to identify Holocaust survivors and other vulnerable older people and investigate their specific needs. Interventions should include practices for maintaining and boosting resilience and well-being by increasing appropriate emotional and cognitive internal and external coping resources, especially during prolonged periods of hardship.

Preoperative cognitive impairment and postoperative delirium among Holocaust survivors who achieved longevity

“…As evidence regarding associations between surviving the Holocaust and poorer cognitive function is inconclusive, our primary conclusion of similar preoperative cognitive impairment rates is in agreement with some studies, yet contradicting others 4,6,9,11,13 . Notably, living in Israel has been suggested as a protective factor 4,7,9 …”

“…The plasticity of their personality, compensatory care, and an underdeveloped cognitive state contribute to their adaptability 9,27 . Moreover, older HS are often described as “resilient,” demonstrating strength in both physical and cognitive domains, aiding recovery despite emotional vulnerability 6,7,27,28 …”

“…9,27 Moreover, older HS are often described as "resilient," demonstrating strength in both physical and cognitive domains, aiding recovery despite emotional vulnerability. 6,7,27,28…”

“…While HS were assumed to be more vulnerable to COVID-19, their COVID-related mortality did not increase. [3][4][5][6][7] However, long-lived HS often experience more depression, anxiety disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder. [8][9][10] The Holocaust's impact on aging cognition remains unclear, with some studies suggesting no increased risk for cognitive impairment in older HS, while others report poorer cognitive function and a higher prevalence of dementia than the general population.…”

“…Recent studies demonstrated a higher burden of comorbidities and malignancies, yet similar mortality rates when comparing HS to the general population. While HS were assumed to be more vulnerable to COVID‐19, their COVID‐related mortality did not increase 3–7 . However, long‐lived HS often experience more depression, anxiety disorders, and post‐traumatic stress disorder 8–10 …”