IMPACTS OF THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC ON MENTAL HEALTH: A FOCUS ON THE BRAZILIAN ELDERLY POPULATION

Abstract

During the COVID-19 pandemic, public health and society faced challenges, causing several changes in aspects of human life. In addition to the direct impact on physical well-being, the health crisis had a significant impact on the mental health of the Brazilian population, especially affecting the elderly. Social isolation, the risk of contamination, and emotional helplessness contributed to the worsening of conditions such as anxiety, depression, and stress. Given this scenario, the main objective of this study is to evaluate the impact of these psychological disorders on the mental health of the elderly, understanding how stressful events affected this group. The results indicated that elderly people in greater social isolation presented higher levels of emotional distress. Those with greater concern about contamination and health developed symptoms of chronic stress. Furthermore, the lack of emotional support was an aggravating factor for these disorders. It’s possible that interventions that promoted social contact, even virtual, and emotional support, such as video calls with family and friends, reduced these symptoms. Finally, community programs that offered psychological assistance and support may have been important in mitigating the negative effects of the pandemic on the mental health of the elderly.