The Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Mental Health Among Older Adults From Different Communities in Chengmai County, China: Cross-sectional Study

• DOI: 10.2196/37046
• Publication Date: 2022-04-09T07:42:15Z
• Authors: Zhimin Xu; Gabriela Lima de ...; Lixian Cui; Fang Zeng; Xiaohai Zhou; Zhongtang Yue; Hanbei Chen
• Keywords: Depression; Cross-sectional study; Pandemic; Patient Health Questionnaire

Background Due to the strict measures employed control spread of SARS-CoV-2, extent COVID-19 goes beyond morbidity and mortality affects individuals’ mental health in long term. Objective This cross-sectional study aimed investigate effects pandemic on its contributing factors among older people Chengmai County, China. Methods A web-based survey was administered through WeChat between March April 2020. Older (ie, >50 years) from local foreign community groups completed survey, which included items sociodemographic clinical characteristics, 7-item Generalized Anxiety Disorder scale (GAD-7), 9-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9). Independent t tests a multiple linear regression analysis were used differences anxiety depression associated with these symptoms across 2 groups. Results Overall, 469 responses received; 119 (25.4%) male participants 202 (43.1%) those than 65 years. Of responses, 245 (52.2%) group 224 (47.8%) group. The mean GAD-7 (P=.003) scores significantly higher more present (61/245, 24.9% compared 35/224, 15.6% group; P=.01). total 6 respondents presented severe depression. Conclusions demonstrated that both adults Chinese “Hometown Longevity” or depressive disorders during first months pandemic. Local disorders, history previous psychological disorders.