204 - Psychological distress and support needs of community residing older adults in urban India – An exploratory study

Abstract

Background: COVID pandemic in India, lockdowns and an unprepared health system has affectedwellbeing of older adults. Low public awareness about mental health issues and stigma also contributeto low help seeking. Exploring impact of COVID on mental health of older adults and understandingsupport needs is essential.Research Objective: To examine mental wellbeing and coping strategies used by urban communityresiding older adults during the pandemic in India.Method: As part of an ongoing community engagement initiative with older adults and their families, anonline survey was conducted during the first wave of the pandemic in April/May 2020.Sociodemographic details and information on coping strategies were gathered. The five-item General Health Questionnaire (GHQ) was used to screen for psychological distress and data were analyzed usingdescriptive statistics. Respondents were contacted again in May 2021 during the second COVID wave fora telephonic interview to understand current levels of distress and coping strategies. Consent was takenfor audio recording and interviews were conducted using a semi-structured interview guide. Interviewswere transcribed and analyzed using thematic analysis.Preliminary results of the ongoing study: Respondents (N=54) aged between 40-86 years (Mn = 60; SD =18.9). Majority were male (61%), retired or homemakers (57%) and widowed/unmarried (52%). Of thesample 70% had one or more pre-existing medical conditions. A score of > 2 on GHQ in 66% respondentsindicates psychological distress. Stressors included health and well-being of family (62%), difficultymanaging household work (42%) and increase in family conflicts (17%). Although 72% discussed theirworries with family/friends, only 25% considered speaking with a mental health professional indicatinglow help seeking. Of respondents contacted again, 40% citied ill health or being busy as reasons forrefusal to participate. Of those who agreed, 33% reported psychological distress. In-depth interviews,showed use of online mental wellness sessions and yoga/meditation to be beneficial coping strategies.Need for more online support groups was also highlighted.Conclusion: Psychological distress is present amongst community residing older adults in urban India. Achange in attitude towards tele mental health must be leveraged to provide support for adultsexperiencing psychological distress.