Coronavirus-Related Anxiety, Social Isolation, and Loneliness in Older Adults in Northern California during the Stay-at-Home Order

Abstract

This study aimed to determine the prevalence of and associations between anxiety, social isolation, and loneliness in a sample of older adults in Northern California during the stay-at-home order enacted during the COVID-19 pandemic. 514 older adults completed a 24-item survey. Perceived isolation and loneliness were reported in 56.4% and 36.0% of participants, respectively. Loneliness was found to be associated with both social isolation and COVID-19-related anxiety; however, social isolation and coronavirus-related anxiety were unrelated. Healthcare providers, social service providers, and families are encouraged to maintain or increase contact with older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic.