Well-being in the age of COVID-19: The role of social support

Abstract

Investigating the impact of social support on elderly well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic is crucial, given its absorptive potential in mitigating the adverse effects of distressful circumstances. This study examines the influence of socio-demographic characteristics and social support on the well-being of older adults (aged 50+) in Ghana. The study utilized a cross-sectional survey with a quantitative approach to collect data from 400 older adults residing in the Accra and Kumasi metropolitan areas. Purposive and snowball sampling techniques were used to recruit the participants. Categorical regression analysis was employed to estimate the associations between socio-demographic factors, social support dimensions, and the well-being of older adults. Of the eleven variables used, six were significant predictors of well-being. In their order of importance, enacted social support (β = 0.496), social integration (β = 0.252), perceived social support (β = 0.149), educational level (β = 0.121), gender (β = 0.074), and employment status (β = -0.017) were the predictors of well-being among the sample. The strongest and weakest predictive factors of well-being within the sample are enacted social support and employment status, respectively. The study emphasizes that focus should not solely be on socio-demographic factors when addressing the well-being of older adults during distressful situations like the COVID-19 pandemic. Instead, it highlights the paramountcy or primacy of social support in mitigating the harmful impact of the pandemic on their well-being. Interventions should prioritize strengthening older individuals’ access to diverse social support options for enhanced well-being.

Keywords:

• well-being
• COVID-19
• social support
• older adults
• Ghana

PUBLIC INTEREST STATEMENT

This study sheds light on the critical role of social support in promoting the well-being of older adults during distressful situations, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. The findings underscore the significance of not only socio-demographic factors but also the availability and quality of social support networks in safeguarding the mental and emotional health of older individuals. By recognizing the absorptive potential of social support, policymakers, healthcare professionals, and communities can prioritize interventions that enhance social connections, foster social integration, and strengthen enacted social support for older adults. These efforts are crucial in mitigating the adverse effects of the pandemic and promoting the overall well-being of older individuals. This study emphasizes the importance of collective responsibility in providing social support to older adults, enabling them to navigate through challenging times with resilience and improved well-being.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Author contribution

AKM conceptualized, drafted and prepared the manuscript for submission.

Availability of data and material

The datasets used and/or analysed during the current study are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.

Ethics approval and consent to participate

Verbal informed consent was obtained from the participants by agreeing orally to participate in the study as most could not read or write. As the dignity, safety and well-being of the interviewees were a matter of primary concern to the researchers, participation in the study was strictly voluntary, and no identifying or sensitive information was recorded.

Additional information

Funding

This research did not receive any specific grant from funding agencies in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors.

Notes on contributors

Anthony Kwame Morgan

Anthony Kwame Morgan is a researcher with a Master of Science Degree in Development Policy and Planning and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Geography and Rural Development from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana. He possesses a strong foundation in understanding the complexities of development, public health, and social issues. His research interests encompass a broad range of topics including public health, health services research, ageing, rural development, and poverty and livelihood studies. Anthony’s expertise in these areas equips him with the necessary knowledge and skills to contribute meaningfully to the field of research and policy formulation. His commitment to addressing public health challenges, particularly about the well-being of older adults, showcases his dedication to improving the lives of vulnerable populations. By focusing on issues such as rural development, poverty, and livelihood studies, Anthony aims to create sustainable solutions that address the multidimensional aspects of human development.