Abstract
This study describes and analyzes the cognitive effects (calculation, emotional recognition, language skills, attention, concentration, memory) and psychosocial effects (sense of humor, loneliness, fear, worry, relationships with the environment) in individuals over 60 years old in Inúbia Paulista-SP and Ribeirão Preto-SP, Brazil, during the COVID-19 social lockdown (2020–2022), and how these data can be useful for the development of specific public policies. A cross-sectional, observational, descriptive-analytical study with a mixed approach was conducted. 674 elderly (257 in Inúbia Paulista-SP; 417 in Ribeirão Preto-SP) answered an AD-HOC 46-question survey in late 2022. The questionnaire covered sociodemographic profile, functionality, cognitive and psychosocial effects, and mental health service use. Results: Most participants were female. Functionality was similar in both cities: half declared independence and half partial dependence; few reported total dependence. In Inúbia Paulista, women had 17% higher likelihood of chronic diseases (p=0.003); no such link in Ribeirão Preto. Cognitive effects were stronger in Ribeirão Preto, especially attention, concentration, and memory; psychosocial effects like loneliness and fear were more evident in Inúbia Paulista. Gender was associated with cognitive effects in Inúbia Paulista (p<0.05), women being more affected. In Ribeirão Preto, COVID-19 exposure (p<0.001) and chronic diseases correlated with cognitive effects. Functionality was linked to cognitive/psychosocial effects (p<0.001), with dependent individuals more affected. Despite social contact, most felt lonely; only 5% recognized the need for mental health services. Identifying common factors despite city differences is vital to develop mental health policies for elderly, improving quality of life through prevention and health promotion.
Presenters
Mario Angelo Cenedesi JuniorAsociate Profesor, Department of Public Health, University of Business and Social Sciences, Buenos Aires, Argentina
Details
Presentation Type
Theme
Public Policy and Public Perspectives on Aging
KEYWORDS
Public Health; Elderly; Public policies; COVID-19
