The outcomes of COVID-19 epidemic crisis on the elderly: A review study

Abstract

Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) has led to more than 111,973,202 confirmed cases, and more than 2,478,409 deaths worldwide. Mortality rates are significantly higher in the elderly than in others during the epidemic of COVID-19; age is significant vulnerabilities to COVID-19. Analysis of clinical features according to the latest published data allows better understanding and better clinical judgment. Methods: In this review study, using the keywords, COVID-19, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), coronavirus, viral and elderly pneumonia, pandemic, epidemic, quarantine, mental health, and social isolation in articles indexed in Embase, Proquest, Pub med, Google Scholar, Science direct, Scopus, Medline, Cochrane databases from December 2019 to February 2020, were searched. Findings: The elderly of more than 65-year-old are classified in high-risk groups, are more vulnerable than other age groups, and require more attention. Social isolation, social distance, and lockdown has raised concerns about their mental health to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Conclusion: Due to the increasing population of the elderly, such biological disasters, if do not take care of and pay enough attention to the various dimensions and problems caused by its consequences, would affect acute and long-term consequences on community health and general health of the elderly. © 2021 Isfahan University of Medical Sciences(IUMS). All rights reserved.