Mental Health

Study reveals stark impact of cocooning on health of over 70s

Published

3 months ago

June 8, 2024

Research conducted by Irish scholars delving into the effects of the pandemic on individuals over the age of 70 discovered that 40% of participants experienced a decline in their mental health due to cocooning.

Encouraging the elderly population to remain at home has been a crucial aspect of the battle against Covid-19, with the primary goal of preventing the transmission of the virus.

A study conducted by Trinity College Dublin and St James’s Hospital focused on analyzing changes in physical and mental health, access to healthcare services, and attitudes towards Covid-19 among individuals aged 70 and above who did not contract the virus.

The results revealed that nearly 40% of respondents reported a deterioration in their mental health since the onset of cocooning, with 57% admitting to feeling lonely at least some of the time while following the guidelines. Participants who lived alone were almost twice as likely to experience feelings of loneliness. Additionally, over 40% mentioned a decline in their physical health since cocooning, with one in five stating that they had not left their homes at all since being advised to cocoon.

Despite the challenges, more than 60% of the participants agreed with the Government’s advice regarding cocooning, while a quarter expressed disagreement.

The findings of the study were published in the January 2021 issue of the Quarterly Journal of Medicine (QJM).

Dr. Robert Briggs, Medical Gerontology at Trinity College and Consultant Geriatrician at St James’s Hospital in Dublin, and the senior author of the study, emphasized the potential secondary impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic on the elderly.

Dr. Briggs stated, “While cocooning is essential for reducing the risk of older individuals contracting Covid-19, it is important to address the potential negative impacts on their health as well.”

He further added, “With the possibility of future waves of Covid-19 and ongoing restrictions despite the vaccine rollout, it is imperative to establish clear policies and provide guidance to older individuals on maintaining social engagement, managing loneliness, and continuing physical activity.”

The research was conducted from October to December 2020.

Source: QJM