ISOLATION OF ELDERLY PEOPLE IN THE CONTEXT OF THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC: PROTECTION OR ABANDONMENT?

Abstract

This article sought to analyze the impacts of social isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic for the elderly. The objective of the study was to understand the situational diagnosis aiming at the performance of the Social Work professional in the intervention through projects and techniques of social intervention, in order to minimize the impacts of isolation on the quality of life of the elderly population. The methodology used in this study was a quali-quantitative approach, based on a bibliographic review. Searches were carried out on scientific search sites, focusing on articles published in the last 4 years. The results found indicate that social isolation had both positive and negative impacts on the care of the elderly. In addition, social isolation was also associated with the feeling of social and family abandonment in some cases. In conclusion, this study highlighted the importance of understanding the impacts of social isolation on the elderly population during the COVID-19 pandemic. The performance of the Social Service professional through social intervention projects and techniques is essential to minimize the negative effects of isolation and promote the quality of life of the elderly.