Experiences coping of COVID-19 in Long-Term Institutions for the Elderly

Abstract

Introduction: the Long-Term Care Institutions for the Elderly (LTCIE) suffered with mortality and high infection rates, by SARS-CoV-2. Objective: to describe the experiences and strategies adopted by LTCIE professionals in coping with COVID-19 in the first months of the pandemic. Methods: this is a qualitative case study, conducted in three LTCIE in Minas Gerais, Brazil. Data collection was performed using the focus group technique, in September 2020, with the participation of fourteen professionals. The results were submitted to Content Analysis. Results: experiences are changes in biosafety practices, such as the use of personal protective equipment and testing of professionals and the elderly. A contingency plan with specific protocols was adopted. Changes in the routine of hygiene of the institutions are also highlighted. It also showed loneliness, fear, insecurity, which resulted in the implementation of strategies such as virtual visits, art therapy, music workshops, drawing and games in an attempt to reduce anxiety. Conclusions: it is suggested that biosecurity measures and protocols may have contributed to the success in combating COVID-19 in these environments. The improvement in the work process of professionals and reception to the psychosocial needs of the elderly were fundamental.