Old Age Homes During the COVID 19 Pandemic-A Study in Some Old Age Homes of Manipur, India

Abstract

The COVID 19 Pandemic has spread all across the globe. While people from all age groups are at risk for getting infected by the virus, the older people are at a higher risk. The study intended to understand the effect of COVID19 on some old age homes of Manipur, India. It also aims to know the actions taken by authorities of the old age homes and challenges faced during the lockdown. A total of five old age homes from three plain districts of Manipur were contacted for data collection during the month of May-June 2021. A telephonic interview was conducted using a semi structured interview schedule. The responses related to the pandemic were captured by asking the open-ended questions mostly related to challenges faced by administrators and caregivers, available resources/facilities and actions taken to avoid occurrence and transmission of infection among elderly residents. No case of COVID 19 infection is found in all the five old age homes. Significant steps were seen to be taken by these old age homes authorities to prevent the infection. They have been strictly following the protocols laid down by the government for the prevention of COVID 19 infection. Entry of outsiders has been strictly exempted. There are changes in the diet and everyday routine of the inmates. The physical and spiritual health of the inmates were well looked after in the old age homes. However, since COVID-19 pandemic is still prevailing in the society, lots of efforts are needed to look after the elderly inmates from many angles.