Managing Everyday Life in Double Exposure: Frail Older People’s Experiences During a Pandemic

Introduction Research has shown that older people experienced mental and physical health issues due to isolation during the Covid-19 pandemic. However, more in-depth knowledge is needed regarding the consequences for frail older people. Aim To explore frail older people’s experiences of managing everyday life in quarantine during the first year of the Covid-19 pandemic. Material and Methods Twenty people were interviewed, and the data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis. Results The people experienced powerlessness under the restrictions and limitations in everyday life beyond control. To cope with these experiences, they accepted and trusted the restrictions and strived for meaningfulness in everyday life. Conclusions Frail older people experienced managing everyday life in double exposure during the pandemic, where personal vulnerabilities and external restrictions intersected, limiting their ability to adapt and maintain autonomy in everyday life. Supporting meaningful routines and enabling participation are therefore central, underscoring the important role of occupational therapy in mitigating the impact of disrupted everyday life. Significance These findings contribute to a more nuanced understanding of the needs of frail older people. This approach is essential to sustaining leisure activities, fostering social connections, and promoting health and well-being during future disruptive events.