OS DESAFIOS DA ANSIEDADE E DEPRESSÃO NOS IDOSOS PÓS COVID: REVISÃO BIBLIOGRÁFICA

ABSTRACT This study aims to investigate the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of the elderly population, with an emphasis on the manifestation of anxiety and depression in the post-pandemic period. The pandemic, which began in December 2019, triggered an unprecedented global health crisis, resulting in more than 775 million confirmed cases and around seven million deaths by early 2024. The elderly, especially those with comorbidities, stood out as the most vulnerable group, accounting for approximately 69.3% of recorded deaths. In addition to the physical effects, the health crisis had profound psychosocial repercussions, particularly among older adults, due to social isolation, the constant fear of infection, the infodemic, and abrupt changes in daily routines. This is an integrative literature review with a qualitative and exploratory approach, carried out through searches in the PUBMED, LILACS, and BVS databases, using the descriptors “Elderly,” “Anxiety,” “Depression,” and “COVID-19.” After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, nine articles were selected for analysis. Among the main risk factors identified were social isolation (44%) and the infodemic (33%). The most frequent symptoms were anxiety, depression, stress, fear, insomnia, and tinnitus. Some suggested coping approaches include family support, self-care practices, and clinical strategies such as structured interviews and the use of assessment tools in Primary Health Care Units. The discussion highlighted the urgency of developing public policies and personalized intervention strategies aimed at promoting the mental health of the elderly in the post-pandemic context. Actions that take into account biopsychosocial and environmental aspects, combined with ongoing clinical and psychological monitoring, prove to be effective in addressing emerging mental disorders. The review also emphasizes the importance of health education and combating the stigma associated with mental health. Finally, it concludes that further studies are needed to deepen the understanding of the long-term effects of the pandemic, contributing to more appropriate and effective care practices tailored to the reality of the elderly population. Keywords: Elderly; Anxiety; Depression; Covid-19.