ANALYSIS OF THE DEVELOPMENT OF DEPRESSION IN THE ELDERLY IN THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

Abstract

The changes resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic affect the elderly population in biological, psychological and social aspects. The preventive measures adopted in the pandemic are important to protect the health of the elderly, on the other hand, social removal generates a clear and harmful impact on their mental health. Due to the deprivation of social contact and reduced autonomy, the activities performed by the elderly were reduced and associated with loneliness and insecurity, given their greater vulnerability to the disease. In this way, it is clear that changes in the lifestyle of the elderly, against the backdrop of the coronavirus pandemic, stimulate the development of signs and symptoms of depression. This review focuses on the study of biopsychosocial effects during the COVID-19 pandemic and their relationship to the development of depression in the elderly.