Aging in Place Through the COVID-19 Pandemic: Perspectives from Aging Service Providers

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Public Health
• Social Work

Background:

• Formal and informal networks are vital for older adults aging in place (AIP).
• The COVID-19 pandemic presented unique challenges for supporting AIP.
• Data from aging-service providers are crucial to understand pandemic impacts.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify assets and barriers faced by aging-service providers supporting AIP during the pandemic.
• To understand emergent needs and service gaps resulting from pandemic response measures.
• To explore novel domains for supporting AIP in a pandemic context.

Main Methods:

• Conducted a series of World Café workshops with aging-service providers in Salt Lake City, Utah.
• Gathered data on supportive factors, service gaps, and future needs.
• Qualitative analysis of provider experiences and challenges.

Main Results:

• Identified key domains for supporting AIP during the pandemic: digital access/literacy, social isolation/mental health, and emergency preparedness.
• Overarching themes included issues of access, equity, and affordability.
• The pandemic exacerbated existing socioeconomic and cultural disparities impacting older adults.

Conclusions:

• Aging-service providers require enhanced networks of advocacy and support.
• Bolstering resources for older adults, caregivers, and providers is essential.
• Addressing disparities in access, equity, and affordability is critical for effective AIP support.