Consequences of restrictive measures due to COVID-19 outbreak on loneliness and social needs of residents, loved ones and volunteers in nursing homes

In this study, residents, loved ones and volunteers of nursing homes shared their experiences with the corona measures regarding loneliness, social needs and resilience. Many residents, loved ones and volunteers found it a difficult period. There were often no activities in nursing homes and there was little contact with fellow residents. Social contact was sought in other ways, such as window visits, but this could not prevent loneliness. Residents, loved ones and volunteers mentioned various feelings, such as sadness, fear and powerlessness. But there was also resilience on display. Residents, loved ones and volunteers had varying views on the measures. Safety and protecting residents is important, but the human touch and personal wishes should not be forgotten. Together with healthcare practice and education, the Talking Plate: "About living with corona" was developed to look back on and learn from the corona pandemic. This project is a collaboration between the Academic Workshop for the Elderly, Tranzo, Tilburg University, UNO-UMCG and HIVA-KU Leuven. Results Talking plate: About living with corona Based on the research, a Talking Plate has been developed about life with corona. This Talking Plate serves as a means to allow these different groups to talk to each other. With the discussion board, residents, their loved ones and volunteers can look back (with each other) on the corona pandemic and learn from it. More about the results of this research? View all updates here . Executive parties Academic networks for elderly care in Tilburg, Groningen and Leuven. A sounding board group with representatives of the elderly, relatives and volunteers actively contribute ideas during the research.