Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine (Aug 2024)

Self-Perception of Mental Health and Exacerbated Social Inequalities Among Vulnerable Older Adults During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Brazil (2021–2023)

  • Letícia Perticarrara Ferezin PhD,
  • Rander Junior Rosa MS,
  • Mônica Chiodi Toscano de Campos PhD,
  • Thaís Zamboni Berra PhD,
  • Heriederson Sávio Dias Moura PhD,
  • Ariela Fehr Tártaro BSC,
  • Murilo César do Nascimento PhD,
  • Natacha Martins Ribeiro BSC,
  • Juliana Soares Tenório de Araújo BSC,
  • Fernanda Bruzadelli Paulino da Costa BSC,
  • Reginaldo Bazon Vaz Tavares BSC,
  • Yan Mathias Alves MS,
  • Titilade Kehinde Ayandeyi Teibo MS,
  • Regina Celia Fiorati PhD,
  • Severina Alice da Costa Uchoa PhD,
  • Rosa Maria Pinheiro Souza PhD,
  • Ione Carvalho Pinto PhD,
  • Ricardo Alexandre Arcêncio PhD

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1177/23337214241274833
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 10

Abstract

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This study analyzes the self-perception of mental health of socially vulnerable elderly people during the COVID-19 crisis in Brazil. Conducted across all state capitals from February 2021 to October 2023, it included 366 participants living in various conditions such as camps, street situations, slums, and communities. The average age was 66.7 years, with a majority being male (59.0%), of Black or Brown race/color (62.3%), and earning below one minimum wage (36.6%). Findings revealed that older adults in street situations, experiencing psychological manifestations like sleep disturbances due to the pandemic, tended to assess their mental health more negatively. In contrast, older men of white race/color without such manifestations, and those practicing strategies like physical activity or relaxation, were less likely to perceive their mental health as poor. Addressing housing, implementing health strategies, and recognizing sample and regional complexities are crucial interventions for older adults in street situations.