The research emphasizes the extraordinary resilience shown by older adults (average age 86) during the COVID-19 pandemic. Although many faced disruptions in their daily lives, they took this as an opportunity to pick up new hobbies like gardening and painting, along with engaging in virtual activities such as online yoga. While 51% dealt with mental health challenges like anxiety and depression, a significant 86% did not report worsening of their pre-existing medical conditions, and most were supportive of the measures taken to curb the pandemic. Amidst the adversities, including the loss of community members and a rise in the use of antidepressants and telehealth services, many individuals discovered happiness and personal growth in their changed situations.
In times of a pandemic, the focus is typically on immediate issues such as disease management, safety measures, and adjustments to daily life. However, facing adversity can sometimes spur positive outcomes.
Research regarding the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and related regulations on older adults residing in retirement communities has been limited, especially concerning any potentially positive outcomes for this demographic.
Recently, a study involving 98 older adults (average age 86 years) from a continuing care retirement community in South Florida explored how this group not only recovered from adversity but also grew stronger through these challenging experiences.
The researchers from Florida Atlantic University’s Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing examined both the difficulties and the personal development reported by participants in the context of “post-traumatic growth” theory, as published in the Journal of Gerontological Nursing.
“Post-traumatic growth theory, a psychological concept, refers to the positive changes that can arise from grappling with significant life challenges,” explained Lenny Chiang-Hanisko, Ph.D., the principal investigator and an associate professor at FAU Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing. “While experiencing traumas like a pandemic can lead to distress, this theory posits that some individuals may achieve substantial personal growth following such experiences.”
Even though the pandemic was marked by considerable stress and fear, study findings indicate that it was also a period of growth for numerous participants. Due to disruptions in their routines—like going on walks with friends or having dinner conversations—many uncovered new interests and pastimes, such as gardening or painting. Some also turned to virtual activities to stay active, including yoga classes, online gaming, and dancing, and found pleasure in exploring their creative talents during extended time at home.
“Post-traumatic growth can unveil new opportunities, prompt a reevaluation of personal goals, and inspire the pursuit of new aspirations,” noted Chiang-Hanisko. “It can also strengthen relationships, enhance resilience and self-confidence, cultivate deeper spiritual understandings related to life purpose, and foster a greater appreciation for life, shifting priorities towards a fuller existence.”
The findings indicate that many participants enhanced their bonds with family and friends by utilizing video calls to maintain connections despite social distancing. They leaned on their past experiences, including previous hardships like economic downturns and wartime struggles, to navigate the challenges posed by the pandemic. This time encouraged self-reflection and spiritual exploration, with many deriving comfort from online religious services and appreciating a slower pace of life. The inability to visit loved ones in person underscored the importance of these relationships, leading to a deeper appreciation of simple joys. Daily gratitude practices helped participants focus on the positives and better manage their challenges.
“Navigating these experiences helped our participants tap into their internal strength and adapt in the face of COVID’s health threats,” stated Patricia Liehr, Ph.D., the co-author and interim dean at FAU Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing. “Many expressed that aging fosters a broader perspective, enabling them to recognize that tough times are often fleeting and that finding joy and meaning is possible, even amidst hardships.”
Despite facing various obstacles, the study participants demonstrated their ability to adapt through technology, confirming their openness to new methods of carrying out daily tasks.
“This study revealed an increased awareness of the necessity for policy reforms to guarantee that individuals of all ages can access and receive training in user-friendly digital and internet services,” Chiang-Hanisko said.
The results also showed that participants dealt with issues such as social isolation, navigating pandemic restrictions, and loneliness. Dining area restrictions posed a significant challenge, limiting social interactions. Nevertheless, 86% did not report a deterioration in their medical conditions, and all participants were vaccinated, with the majority (86%) supporting the community’s pandemic safety measures. However, 51% experienced psychosocial difficulties, with anxiety affecting 32% and depression affecting 31% of them.
Additionally, 26% reported knowing residents who died from COVID-19, attributing these losses to reasons such as a diminished will to live (35%) and feelings of social isolation (30%). Importantly, 29% missed in-person visits with their healthcare providers, though 59% turned to telehealth services, and the use of antidepressants and sleeping aids saw an uptick.
For this study, researchers created a survey questionnaire, which included open-ended inquiries such as “What was the most difficult or serious impact on you during the COVID-19 pandemic?” “How did you cope with the most challenging issue?” and “What is the most significant thing you learned about yourself during the COVID-19 pandemic?”
“As we look to the future, we need to address post-pandemic questions, including the potential for new living arrangements in preparation for future crises since existing facilities are vulnerable during emergencies,” remarked Chiang-Hanisko. “The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the need for flexible, secure, and socially engaging living environments for older adults that promote continuous personal development.”
The study’s co-author, the late Elizabeth Force, Ph.D., was a medical researcher dedicated to advancing nursing research aimed at disease prevention, alleviating suffering, and enhancing health.
