Correlates Of Resilience In The Context Of Social Isolation In Seniors (CRISIS)

In the current COVID-19 crisis, older adults are at particular risk for severe health outcomes and increased mortality. Whereas it is of prime importance to raise public awareness regarding the special risk of older people, and reduced in-person contact is essential to protect vulnerable groups, we have to take into account what effects these measures have on subjective well-being, mental health and further development of older persons. The present research project will tackle the question of how current measures and their communication to the public are experienced by the target group (60+) and will focus on the psychological and behavioral correlates and outcomes. In particular, the following questions will be addressed: 1) How are claims of being a risk group and COVID 19 related ageing stereotypes incorporated in views of self and others and how are they related to psychological and behavioral consequences, e.g. regarding the experience of self-efficacy and agency? 2) How is subjective risk experienced and how do older people commit to protective measures and guidelines, also depending on their self-views? 3) How can the risk for social isolation and loneliness be reduced? This includes the availability of appropriate information and communication channels? 4) What are resilience factors that protect older adults from negative mental health outcomes and help to maintain subjective well-being? Results will inform policies related to controlling the virus and information strategies to ensure compliance with the measures, especially (but not only) in the at-risk population of older adults. Furthermore, the project will contribute knowledge to reduce negative side effects of the preventive measures for older adults' long-term autonomy, health, and well-being.