JAIPUR: Agewell Foundation, an NGO working for the welfare and empowerment of old people across the country since 1999, conducted a survey about the effects of Covid on mental health of elderly people and during interactions with over 500 such people in Rajasthan, it was found that health anxiety, sleeplessness, panic attacks, depression, irritation, unceasing stress, nightmares, feeling of emptiness, fear of contracting coronavirus, loss of appetite, anxiety related to the uncertain future were the major issues being faced by them.
Nearly 80% complained of health anxiety while more than 50% confirmed about other issues.
According to the survey conducted over a period of a month, approximately 79.6% elderly complained of health anxiety due to rising Covid cases and casualties around them during the past month in the state.
Around 67% elderly were found suffering from sleeplessness, insomnia and nightmares due to poor quality of sleep.
Agewell Foundation founder Himanshu Rath said, “During the last month of second wave of pandemic, there was a rise of 50% in the number of older people seeking counselling/help for psychological issues like depression, anxiety, sleeplessness, fear, stress, sense of loneliness/isolation etc.
Most older persons, despite having access to resources, are finding themselves helpless and vulnerable due to fast spreading coronavirus.
It has devastated their peace of mind and life.
They need urgent help in the form of counselling, useful tips and information, health care as well as emotional support.” It was also found that 63% elderly have developed symptoms of depression due to loneliness, social isolation.
Further 62.4% elderly also complained of unceasing stress during Covid-hit period.
“In view of the surge in cases across the country and a huge burden on the healthcare system, older people are afraid of the Covid consequences during the course of the disease.
They seem much worried about getting a bed and proper treatment in hospital if they or any of their family members is ever in need”, added Rath.
The organisation recommended that door-to-door step healthcare services should be provided for the senior citizens and dedicated programmes should be developed for their overall well-being including trained professionals.