Older people in England happier and more satisfied now than before COVID, researchers say
Experts analysed data from a long-term study, the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing, tracking the wellbeing of 3,999 people aged 50 in England over time.
The researchers found that those surveyed reported that their happiness, eudaemonic wellbeing - which measures whether life feels worthwhile - and life satisfaction all plummeted during the COVID-19 pandemic.
However, Paola Zaninotto, professor of medical and social statistics at UCL's Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, said "remarkably" people reported higher happiness, wellbeing and satisfaction since then.
"As many would expect, we found that wellbeing declined during the pandemic, and instances of depression rose," she said.
"While depression is still slightly more prevalent than before 2020, remarkably, overall older people are now happier, more satisfied and have a greater sense of purpose than before the pandemic."
The study did find levels of depression among the 50-year-olds surveyed have not returned to pre-pandemic levels.
Around 11.4% reported depressive symptoms before COVID-19, which rose to 27.2% in late 2020. Post-pandemic, the study found levels of depression had fallen to 14.9% - still above pre-COVID figures.
Ms Zaninotto added that "the pandemic had a profound effect on the wellbeing of older people in England," but added "we can only speculate on the reasons" why those surveyed reported feeling better after COVID-19.
"It perhaps could reflect a renewed appreciation for social connections and meaningful activities, as well as increased psychological resilience after a period of adversity," she said.
"Improved health security following widespread vaccinations could also have contributed to this positive shift.
"We saw marked differences by age and affluence, underscoring the importance of tailored support policies for the immediate and lingering effects of pandemics on the well-being of our older population."
The study was published in the journal Aging and Mental Health.
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