Abu Dhabi emerged successful in tackling the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental and physical health of the elderly population. According to a new survey by the Department of Community Development (DCD) in Abu Dhabi, various programmes launched by government agencies in the emirate in recent years have helped in boosting the mental wellbeing of individuals in the community.

The research was published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. The DCD conducted two cycles of survey between April and June 2020 to identify and review the challenges and concerns faced by community members in Abu Dhabi in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. The survey received more than 33,000 responses from the community.

These assessments were supported by global research which suggested a significant rise in mental health concerns, such as anxiety and loneliness, among older adults. Participants of the DCD study displayed milder symptoms along with lower levels of irritability, emotional exhaustion, signs of depression, sleep disorder and overeating. According to the study, older adults significantly acknowledged the importance of virtual technology in enhancing the quality of life.

Last year, the department launched an initiative in partnership with the Family Development Foundation (FDF) to assess the effectiveness of Virtual Reality (VR) technology in strengthening mental health and wellbeing of the elderly. The initiative is in line with DCD’s ongoing effort to ensure the provision of adequate care for the ageing population in Abu Dhabi.

Dr Layla Abdulaziz Al Hyas, Executive Director of the Social Monitoring and Innovation Sector at DCD, underlined the importance of physical and mental well-being of people at the top priority in the emirate. Al Hyas added that the department has taken note of mental health concerns of the community during these challenging times, especially of the seniors.

The official further stressed the significance of research and innovation at DCD to enhance the wellbeing of the community. DCD continue to collaborate with social sector and various government authorities to address looming risks on mental and physical health and well-being of individuals. To enhance the health and safety of the community, DCD ensures the use of technology and innovative interventions.

“The scale of mental distress since the start of the pandemic required unprecedented levels of mental-health support to ensure that it did not to lead to permanent scarring, especially among the older population," Al Hyas added.

Dr Layla explained how the COVID-19 pandemic has amplified the risk factors associated with poor mental health, including financial insecurity, social connection, lack of physical exercise, daily routine, and access to health services.

"Older people are among those who have been hit the hardest," she said.

She also highlighted the need for ensuring more integrated, whole of-society mental health support.

"While the results of our (DCD's) initiatives are impressive, much more work is left to be done. We can - and will - do better to help every member of our community to tide over the crisis and live a normal and happy life," she added.

Professor Masood Badri, adviser to the chairman of DCD, further stressed the department’s continuous support and efforts to motivate researchers to carry out relevant scientific and innovative studies to achieve sustainable solutions to address challenges. The research paper has been developed by Professor Badri and his team members.

He also affirmed the DCD's consistent cooperation with government institutions and policies to strengthen Abu Dhabi's unique culture and tradition. This ongoing cooperation between institutions has played an important role in enabling the community to overcome concerning challenges and crises.