COVID-19: Loneliness, anxiety and grief affecting people aged 70+
Over half of people aged 70+ said that they feel worried about the future and reported feeling stressed or anxious, according to new data.
New data from the Office for National Statistics has revealed that 3 in 5 people aged 70+ say that the lack of independence and freedom has affected their wellbeing during the lockdown.
Other reasons affecting their wellbeing include relationships being affected and the cancellation of life events such as weddings and funerals.
Simon Hewett-Avison, Director of Services at Independent Age said: “People of all ages have been struggling with their mental health during the pandemic, but this can be worse for some older people.
“As well as feelings of acute anxiety around the COVID-19 outbreak, and the intensified isolation and loneliness, many people in later life will also be experiencing grief.”
Throughout the months of March to June, 39,257 people in England and Wales aged 70 or over died as a result of COVID-19, 84% of the total deaths in England and Wales.
The data also shows that between 22nd — 25th July, 35% say that the availability of groceries, medication and essentials was still affecting them.
Hewett-Avison said: “We had a spike in phone calls at the start of lockdown relating to coronavirus, as well as worries about being able to get enough food, medicine and other supplies, particularly among those shielding at home.
“The main things we have been getting calls about recently are the financial impact of the pandemic, the ability to provide care to loved ones, concerns about care homes and worries about the impact on mental health.”
Data also shows that 79% of people surveyed between 22nd — 25th July have avoided contact with older and vulnerable people to limit the spread of the Coronavirus, despite the easing in lockdown measures.
However, Hewett-Avison said that he and his team at Independent Age were continuing their support to those who needed it by telephones after having to pause face-to-face meetings.
“We made sure that every person we support through our friendship services was offered telephone calls with a volunteer instead so that they’d still have someone to talk to throughout the pandemic.
“It’s vitally important to us that we continue to support the older people who need our help most during these difficult times.”
