A mixed methods study on the impact of COVID-19 in older Australians during second lockdowns

Abstract

Introduction: The impact of extensive second lockdown measures on older adults’ quality of life (QoL) remains unknown. Our study aimed to compare the QoL of older Australians in Victoria who experienced a second lockdown with the QoL of older Australians in other States and Territories. Methods: A national cross-sectional survey study of 2,990 community-dwelling older adults measured QoL, social networks, healthcare access, and perceived impact of COVID-19 on multiple aspects of life, between July to September 2020 using a mix of closed and open questions. Tobit regression was used to measure difference in States and explore factors associated with QoL, and inductive content analysis of opened ended questions was conducted. Results: Respondents’ mean age was 67.3 years [SD=7.0]. Victoria’s second lockdown had been in force for an average 51.7 days. Adjusted QoL scores were significantly higher in Victoria compared to the rest of Australia (t2,827=2.25, p=0.025) (median 0.84 vs 0.80, respectively). Individuals with pre-existing health conditions, receiving Government or aged care services, smaller social networks, and high medical needs reported lower QoL during lockdown. During lockdowns, Victorians made significantly more video calls compared other Australians (p=0.002). Respondents made more negative comments regarding the impact of COVID-19 compared to positive or mixed comments (81:6:12) and highlighted that emergency lockdown measures heightened feelings of insecurity, confusion, and emotional isolation. Conclusions: Many vulnerable populations may have been adversely affected during this period, however the impact of Victoria’s lockdown did not appear to affect general older adults QoL compared to the rest of Australia