Salud mental, seguridad y calidad de vida del adulto mayor en tiempos de covid-19

Abstract

Introduction: On March 11, 2020, the severe acute respiratory syndrome due to COVID-19 was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization. In Ecuador, from March to September 2020, a curfew was established, and social interaction was restricted. Objective: To assess the effects of the current health situation on mental health, the perception of safety, and the quality of life of older adults. Methods: An observational, descriptive and cross-sectional study in older adults, men and women, from the province of El Oro, Ecuador, between AugustSeptember 2020. The sample consisted of 270 patients. The WHOQOL-BREF Quality of Life Scale was used. Results: 114 (42.2%) of the elderly surveyed reported negative feelings. Bilateral negative correlation values were found when relating negative feelings to all items, and a positive relationship with safety and quality of life. The intensity of the correlation remained between weak and moderate values in all variables, but significant (p= 0.000). The statistical power (1-β) showed the significant relationship between the variables, with an effect size greater than 0.5, which indicates that the strength of the relationship between the variables is large. Conclusions: A predominance of negative feelings, depression, sadness, uncertainty was found in the population of older adults studied that is affecting mental health. Worries affect the meaning and enjoyment of life, thereby reducing health-related quality of life.