"How are You Doing?" on the Healthy Aging of the Community-Dwelling Oldest-Old in the Shadow of the COVID-19 Pandemic. (March 2023)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Lo, Shirley K.L.; Liu, Justina Y.W.; Cheung, Daphne S. K.; Yin, Yue-Heng; Ng, Siu Ying; P.K. Kor, Patrick; Yang, Lin; Chan, Siu Kay; Kwan, Rick Y.C.; Lee, Paul H.; Chiang, Vico C. L.
• Is Part Of: Research on aging. Volume 45:Number 3/4(2023)
• Page Start: 280
• Page End: 290
• Publication Date: 2023-03
• Subjects: Aging well -- Oldest-old -- COVID-19 -- Healthy aging; Old age -- Periodicals; Gerontology -- United States -- Periodicals; 305.2605
• DOI: 10.1177/01640275221100949
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0164-0275

Abstract

Objective: Globally, the oldest-old population is growing rapidly. Little is known about the perceived well-being of the community-dwelling oldest-old, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study examined the oldest-old's perceptions of aging well and the COVID-related impacts on them. Methods: Semi-structured in-depth interviews with 22 adults aged 85 or above were conducted with purposive sampling methods. Transcripts were analyzed using thematic analysis. Results: Four main themes emerged: 1) sustaining functional ability; 2) staying active with a positive attitude; 3) feeling grateful for support from society and family; 4) COVID-19-related anxieties and policies destabilizing their well-being. Discussion: This study provides direct evidence from the oldest-old on how they maintained their well-being. While they valued support from society and family, COVID-19-related measures disturbed their routines and prevented them from self-attaining well-being. The findings should be considered when developing interventions for this vulnerable group.