The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by the novel coronavirus, SARS CoV-2, is a public health emergency that disproportionately impacts older adults. Older adults over the age of 50 are at an increased risk for serious illness and death related to COVID-19, and this risk increases with age, with the highest risk among adults ages 85 and older. Additionally, measures to prevent transmission of the virus, such as social distancing and stay-at-home orders, have contributed to adverse effects for older adult health and well-being, including social isolation and limited access to basic necessities. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, research also suggests older adults’ needs and concerns differ from other age groups when managing chronic conditions during public health emergencies. They face increased barriers to regularly visiting health care providers, adhering to medications, and maintaining medical equipment, as well as heightened concern regarding rising virus transmission rates.
