AUTHOR=Bhat Nasrullah , Paul Fayaz Ahmad , Gul Aamir , Ganie Zahoor Ahmad 

TITLE=Loneliness and social isolation: exploring the experiences of older women during the pandemic in terms of social connection, feeling of loneliness, and the impact on mental health and wellbeing

JOURNAL=Frontiers in Global Women's Health

VOLUME=5

YEAR=2024

URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/global-womens-health/articles/10.3389/fgwh.2024.1410058

DOI=10.3389/fgwh.2024.1410058

ISSN=2673-5059

ABSTRACT=<sec><title>Objectives</title><p>To investigate the unique challenges faced by older women during the COVID-19 pandemic regarding social connection, feelings of loneliness, and their subsequent impact on mental health and well-being.</p></sec><sec><title>Method</title><p>A qualitative research methodology is used to examine how older women experienced loneliness, social relationships, and mental health consequences during the COVID-19 pandemic.</p></sec><sec><title>Results</title><p>The results are discussed in terms of two main themes each with their sub-themes; 1. Social Connection amidst Physical Distancing Measures, 2. Impact on Mental Health and Well-being.</p></sec><sec><title>Conclusion</title><p>The study highlights the significant impact of loneliness and social isolation on the mental health of older women during the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions and support systems.</p></sec>