The physical, mental and social difficulties of older adults with disabilities during the COVID-19 pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the health of older adults, especially those with disabilities. Older adults are more likely to develop severe COVID-19 symptoms and die from the virus. Using PRISMA guidelines, this systematic review was conducted with the aim of identifying the physical, mental, and social challenges exacerbated by the pandemic in older adults with disabilities. We included adults 65 years and older with disabilities and excluded studies focusing on individuals under 65. Two reviewers independently assessed all data, and the risk for bias assessment was completed. The overall amount of physical activity time during the pandemic’s first, second, and third waves dropped from the pre-pandemic time by 33.3%, 28.3%, and 40.0%, respectively, leading to a higher risk of frailty. Persons with disabilities were found to have a greater likelihood of death (28.1%), a longer hospital stay duration (median 13.9), and more frequent readmissions (17.6%) compared to their counterparts without disabilities. 18. People with visual impairments relied heavily on their sense of touch (reading Braille, using electronic devices, canes, etc.), which increased their risk of infection.12 There was an increase in reported anxiety and depression levels, mainly due to isolation, fear of death, and limited access to essentials and caregivers. A prior mental health issue also caused significant coping difficulties. The long period of the pandemic has left caregivers with increased anxiety, depression, and a sense of burnout. In conclusion, the challenges our review population faced included poor access to quality medical care, loss of social support, and deteriorating mental and physical health. More research is needed to identify the full extent of the pandemic and to develop anticipatory solutions to help mitigate similar public health emergencies.