Positive and Negative Feelings among Spanish Young–Old and Old–Old during the Lockdown of the COVID-19 First Wave

Abstract

Objectives The COVID-19 pandemic required a population lockdown during the first wave in March 2020. Evidence has shown a circular relationship between perceived threat and the risk of developing negative mood, which might impact the affect balance of older adults. We aimed to investigate the positive and negative feelings expressed by young–old (60–70 years) and old–old (over 71 years) Spanish adults during the lockdown of the COVID-19 first wave, and the social and psychological variables associated. Methods Cross-sectional study conducted in 528 participants using a questionnaire composed of sociodemographic data and validated scales for resilience (Brief Resilient Coping Scale) and emotions (Scale of Positive and Negative Experience). Results We found a positive balance between positive and negative feelings with no differences between both groups. Regression analysis showed that social network and resilience, but not age, are significant predictors of both greater positive feelings and lower negative feelings. Conclusions Our results evidence the relevance of promoting targeted support psychological and social measures that effectively help older adults to cope with such a difficult scenario as the current pandemic. Clinical implications Health-care providers must develop targeted care strategies aimed at providing emotional support for older adults from a holistic perspective