Exploring the Lived Experiences of Older Adults during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Phenomenological Study

Objectives: The proportion of older people in the population is very high. Many countries have been on lockdown due to the outbreak of COVID-19, with older adults being under higher mental, physical, and emotional pressures. The present study aimed to explain the lived experiences of older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown in Iran. Materials and Methods: This qualitative phenomenological study was conducted in Fars, Kermanshah, and Tehran provinces in Iran from 1 October 2021 to 15 February 2022. The data were collected through interviewing elderly individuals. Data analysis was done employing the Smith approach to explain the lived experiences of older adults during the COVID-19 lockdown in Iran. Results: The sample included 16 older adults (nine males and seven females) with the mean age of 73 years. The participants’ lived experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown in Iran were classified into three main categories, namely mental stress, resilience measures, and economic stress. Conclusion: Iranian elderly people experienced various types of mental and emotional stress. Severe limitations of social distancing and quarantine measures have also added to concerns about these individuals’ mental health. Therefore, it is very important to identify and analyze the psychological concepts and protective factors along with preparing practical suggestions and guidelines to protect the mental health of the elderly population during the COVID-19 pandemic.