The Covid19 lockdown led several older adults to adapt and engage with technology such as Zoom WhatsApp or FaceTime to stay in touch with loved ones or participate in exercise classes or religious groups finds a new study
The Covid-19 lockdown led several older adults to adapt and engage with technology such as Zoom, WhatsApp or FaceTime to stay in touch with loved ones or participate in exercise classes or religious groups, finds a new study. The .
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Nicola Sturgeon has urged residents in two south side postcodes to take a coronavirus test amid a significant outbreak .
It comes following an announcement that Glasgow will remain in Level 3 lockdown for at least another week.
The First Minister shared the disappointing news at the Scottish Parliament while answering emergency questions on rising covid rates, here and in Moray.
Credit: University of Stirling
The COVID-19 lockdown was a catalyst for many older people to embrace technology, reconnect with friends and build new relationships with neighbours, according to University of Stirling research.
Understanding the coping mechanisms adopted by some over 60s during the pandemic will play a key role in developing interventions to help tackle loneliness, isolation and wellbeing in the future.
The study, led by the Faculty of Health Sciences and Sport, surveyed 1,429 participants - 84 percent (1,198) of whom were over 60 - and found many had adapted to video conferencing technology to increase online contact with existing social networks, while others reconnected with previous networks. Participants reported that lockdown had led them to engage with neighbours and other members of their communities for the first time, while several said social distancing had brought an additional meaning to life, by highlighting what was important to them.
Older people embracing technology to beat loneliness during pandemic – study 14/05/2021, 11:59 am
Older people have been using Zoom and other apps to keep in touch during lockdown (Dominic Lipinski/PA)
The coronavirus lockdown has seen older people embracing technology and seeking out friendships, research has found.
The University of Stirling study found people over the age of 60 are using apps such as Zoom, WhatsApp and FaceTime to socialise.
They have also reconnected with old friends and spoken more with neighbours.
Earlier research by the university found the pandemic has led to a spike in loneliness.
But the academics said there have been positive outcomes too.