Impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on community services for homebound older adults in New York City
Year: 2021
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has affected multiple aspects of society. Based on data from a community program, this study examined how the pandemic influenced community services for homebound older adults and whether those services could be delivered via internet-based information and communications technology. Using mixed methods, we collected quantitative data from client profiles and service documents and qualitative data from phone interviews with program staff members and clients. The quantitative results show that during the pandemic, more services were provided for the physical well-being of homebound older adults than for their psychological and home environment needs. Service duration during the pandemic was significantly longer than prior to the pandemic. The qualitative data indicate that the pandemic has influenced inputs, activities and outcomes of the program. The program staff members and clients expressed concerns about delivering services online. Based on the findings, we provide suggestions for future practice and policy.
DOI: 10.1111/hsc.13554
Authors: Jinyu Liu, Bing Ji, Yifan Lou
Institutions: Columbia University, University Settlement
Language: English
Subfield: General Health Professions
Field: Health Professions
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W3193841285