Social Impact of Physical Distancing on Vulnerable Populations during COVID-19

To reduce the spread of COVID-19, it is important to maintain physical distancing and stay home. What are the consequences of these measures for socially vulnerable groups who are already threatened with social exclusion? In this study during the first corona wave (March - July 2020), we looked at the impact among the elderly, people with mild intellectual disabilities, the homeless, families with young children and where domestic violence is an issue, as well as supporting professionals. A total of 244 people were interviewed and questionnaires administered to independently living elderly people (1697 people) and elderly people, family and employees in nursing homes (n=2619). Results show a variety of experiences, from relative peace and a sense of social normality in solitude to a loss of perspective. We conclude that during epidemic disease outbreaks, care for these groups should be seen as essential social interaction, necessary to guarantee minimal quality of life. (First) results The following conclusion can be drawn from the analysis of the stories and figures: the impact of the corona measures on vulnerable groups in the Netherlands appears to be significant, even now that rules are being relaxed. The lockdown has been too rigorous and too long for some. During the lockdown, social contact was especially missed, but at the same time it brought peace to the vulnerable. After the lockdown, confusion and inequality arose. It is also concluded that government measures were too focused on preventing contamination and chaos in the ICUs, while other forms of safety should also have been included in the policy. In their final report, the researchers present a series of policy recommendations aimed at facilitating social contact, promoting meaning for society, making rules understandable and developing digital care. More about the results of this research? View the results page or go to www.coronatijden.nl . Executive parties University of Amsterdam, Trimbos Institute, Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences, Pharos, MEE NL, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam and Ben Sajet Center.