Researchers at Saskatchewan Polytechnic recently interviewed 40 seniors, between April and June, on their experience socially isolating during the pandemic.

Heather Nelson, research chair with Sask Polytech says many of the participants experienced loneliness, boredom, stress, depression and anxiety. She says seniors talked about feeling like they were in jail or trapped at home. Nelson notes some of this was related to an uncertain future and concerns about the outbreak and safety. This extended to their future ability to volunteer and travel as planned for retirement.

The participants were all over the age of 60, and were interviewed 3 times each during the spring regarding their experiences. Nelson says early results indicated challenges were brought on by disruptions in their routine, the inability to visit friends and family and a lack of regular exercise.

Nelson says those who adapted better were using different coping mechanisms, like exercise , online hobbies and communicating with friends and family. Heading into winter, she says it’s important to keep in mind that the COVID-19 challenges will be magnified and helping seniors with coping measures will become even more important.