Enacted Social Support: Key to Elderly Well-being in COVID-19 Era

What is it about?

This study examines the impact of social support on the well-being of older adults (aged 50+) in Ghana during the COVID-19 pandemic. The research uses a cross-sectional survey with a quantitative approach to gather data from 400 older adults in Accra and Kumasi metropolitan areas. The study identifies six significant predictors of well-being, with enacted social support being the most important factor. Other predictors include social integration, perceived social support, educational level, gender, and employment status. The findings emphasize the importance of social support, particularly enacted social support, in safeguarding the well-being of older adults during challenging situations like the COVID-19 pandemic. The results highlight the need to prioritize social support systems and relationships for older individuals to maintain their well-being. Policymakers and healthcare professionals should focus on developing interventions that strengthen social support networks and promote social integration for older adults. Future research should explore additional dimensions of social support and their specific impacts on the well-being of elderly individuals during times of crisis.

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Why is it important?

This study is important because it investigates the impact of social support on the well-being of older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. Understanding the factors that contribute to the well-being of older adults in times of distress is crucial for developing targeted interventions and strategies to promote well-being, particularly during challenging times such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Key Takeaways: 1. Enacted social support, social integration, and perceived social support are significant predictors of well-being among older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. 2. Enacted social support is the most influential factor in promoting well-being among older adults, highlighting the importance of tangible support from family, friends, and community networks. 3. Social integration, which reflects the extent of an individual's involvement in social activities and relationships, also plays a significant role in promoting well-being. 4. Educational level, gender, and employment status are additional factors that influence well-being among older adults, albeit to a lesser extent. 5. The study reinforces the importance of perceived and actual social support in the lives of older adults, especially during times of distress. 6. Social support measures and fostering strong social connections should be prioritized to promote well-being and mitigate the negative impacts of future pandemics.