COVID-19 and the Fears of Italian Senior Citizens
Diego De Leo, Marco Trabucchi
Abstract
Italy has been hit very hard by the severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic. This brief report highlights some of the peculiarities manifested by its older adult population, with particular reference to those living in nursing institutions and at home. Mortality data (as of 26 April) are reported, together with reactions to forced isolation, loneliness, and fear of contracting the disease, which represent big challenges for all, especially for frail elderly people.
Topics & Concepts
LonelinessCoronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)Social isolationPandemicIsolation (microbiology)Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)2019-20 coronavirus outbreakPopulationGerontologyMedicineCoronavirusPsychiatryDiseaseEnvironmental healthVirologyInfectious disease (medical specialty)MicrobiologyBiologyPathologyOutbreakLong-Term Effects of COVID-19Health disparities and outcomesEmployment and Welfare Studies