Experiences of the elderly in Ghana during the COVID-19 pandemic

Mabel Oti-Boadi; Johnny Andoh-Arthur

Mabel Oti-Boadi University of Ghana https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5892-9021
Johnny Andoh-Arthur University of Ghana https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7036-1835

Keywords: Elderly, experiences, COVID-19, survival, coping, Ghana

Abstract

The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore the experiences of the elderly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Twelve elderly people were recruited from a support group in Accra, Ghana. A semi-structured interview guide was used to collect data on their experiences of and coping with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Reflexive thematic analysis of the data revealed an overarching theme of “worry”, and related themes such as survivalism, threats and challenges helpful resources and prosociality. Findings indicate adaptive and prosocial mechanisms adopted to deal with and contribute to reducing the spread of the COVID-19 despite their worries. Findings from our study deepens understanding of the elderly’s experiences of COVID-19 as well as offers important insights for supporting them in terms of allocating resources and providing social and psychological interventions to improve their well-being.