Factors associated with depressive and anxiety symptoms in older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic: a Brazilian study

Abstract

Objectives: Older adults are one of the most vulnerable age groups to the social distance measures imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aimed to assess factors associated with depressive and anxiety symptoms in Brazilian older adults during the pandemic.

Method: This cross-sectional online study assessed 380 older adults (over 60 years of age) living in Brazil, from 26th May 2020 to 29th June 2020. A self-reported questionnaire included sociodemographic data, lifestyle, health characteristics, and the COVID-19 related variables. The Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) and the Geriatric Anxiety Inventory (GAI) were also applied. Data were analyzed via logistic regression models, using a hierarchical approach.

Results: The prevalence of depressive symptoms according to GDS was 28.7% (95% CI = 24.4%, 33.4%) and the prevalence of anxiety symptoms according to GAI was 26.1% (95% CI = 21.9%, 30.7%). Physically inactive older adults, the ones who were in social isolation for more days, feel much vulnerable to contracting COVID-19, and never or almost never receive support from family/friends were more likely to have depressive symptoms. Being female, physically inactive or physically active 1–3 times/week, feel very vulnerable to contracting COVID-19 and never or almost never receive support from family/friends were associated with the anxiety symptoms.

Conclusion: A high prevalence of depressive and anxious symptoms was identified in Brazilian older adults. The data can help in planning interventions aimed at older adults, also including their families, health professionals, and the whole society.

Keywords:

• Mental health
• psychology of aging
• social isolation
• COVID-19

Disclosure statement

None of the authors have any disclosure of interest to report.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by the Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior – Brasil (Capes) under Grant Code 001; and the Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul.