Coping de pessoas idosas no contexto da Infodemia de Covid-19

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to comprehend the coping strategies developed by elderly individuals in response to the infodemic of COVID-19. Method: A single-case study with a qualitative approach guided by Lazarus and Folkman's Coping framework was conducted. Data were collected from August 2021 to May 2022 through online semi-structured interviews with 30 elderly participants from the municipality of Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais. Public documents were also used to complement the collected data. Data were analyzed using thematic categorical Content Analysis, with the assistance of OpenLogos version 2.0 for data systematization. Results: of the 30 participants, 21 were women and 9 were men.Two categories constituted the analytical corpus: Coping centered on action developed by elderly individuals in confronting the COVID-19 infodemic and Coping centered on emotion developed by elderly individuals in confronting the COVID-19 infodemic. In the first category, there was a search for information on social media and among family and friends, along with the adoption of the strategy of not listening to presidential statements. In the second category, there was avoidance of disseminated news, the maturity linked to life experience to cope with stress, volunteer work, physical exercise, the practice of spirituality/religiosity, and activities that could be carried out at home such as reading, meditation, and crafting, as well as home care. Conclusion: This study analyzed coping strategies employed by the elderly during the COVID-19 infodemic, highlighting coping centered on action and emotion. Elderly individuals sought reliable information and took assertive measures in prevention, reducing negative impacts. Additionally, they turned to emotional strategies such as support from social networks and spiritual practices. Limitations include the online sample and the need for more comprehensive studies. This research provides valuable insights into how the elderly confronted the infodemic, contributing to future investigations and support in challenging contexts.