Experts are calling on Korea to address social isolation among older adults to safeguard mental health during future pandemics, highlighting that medical measures alone are insufficient.
The National Medical Center cited a new study showing that social engagement and neighborhood satisfaction are closely linked to depression levels in seniors during COVID-19.
The study was led by Principal Researcher Lee Kyung-shin of the Infectious Disease Project Support Team at the National Medical Center and Professor Lee Jee-hye of Konkuk University College of Medicine’s Department of Preventive Medicine.
Researchers analyzed data from roughly 140,000 Koreans aged 65 and older using the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency’s “Korea Community Health Survey (KCHS)” from 2019 and 2021. They found that depressive symptoms among older adults rose slightly during the pandemic, from 4.7% before COVID-19 to 4.9% during it.
Depression was measured using the PHQ-9 self-screening tool, while social engagement was assessed based on trust in neighbors, mutual assistance, and frequency of interactions. Neighborhood satisfaction was also evaluated, including safety, the natural environment, living conditions, transportation, and access to healthcare.
Using a “Difference-in-Differences” approach, the team found that active social networks significantly reduced depressive symptoms. Seniors who trusted neighbors or received mutual help showed the lowest levels of depression. Phone calls, online communication, and other forms of remote social contact were also found to benefit mental health, not just in-person interactions.
While satisfaction with neighborhood conditions increased during the pandemic, it had a relatively minor effect on alleviating depression compared with social connection.
The researchers concluded that policymakers should strengthen community programs, support digital communication, and provide home visits to help older adults maintain social relationships in preparation for future public health crises.
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