Mind over Matter

There have been reports about the adverse impact of the corona virus pandemic on the minds of seniors. Krishna Moorthy suggests that it’s best to keep mentally stable to avoid panic attacks and stress.

- Krishna Moorthy

The corona virus pandemic has affected humans in a way that no other disease has so far and disrupted the world in unprecedented ways causing economic, financial, health, mental and emotional concerns for all. The actions to curb and contain the spread of the viral infection, like lockdown and social distancing, have affected the elderly more since they are the most vulnerable segment of the population. Besides health problems, where they stand a high risk of being affected by the virus, there are reports that they are facing mental and emotional problems.

Some of these problems and possible solutions are discussed in this article.

Isolation and Loneliness

Many elders may have been facing loneliness even before the extended lockdowns due to health problems, reduced mobility and isolation from children, friends and relatives along with lack of social interaction. And now, the lockdowns, clamped to prevent the spread of infection, have only added to the misery. In the present crisis, elders have been feeling confused, uncertain and helpless about what is going to happen to them and their families. Social distancing and prolonged isolation has only made it worse.