# Changes in Psychophysical Parameters in Seniors During the COVID-19 Pandemic—A Repeated Observational Study

## TL;DR

This study examines how the COVID-19 pandemic affected the physical and mental health of seniors over one year.

## Contribution

The study provides new insights into the psychophysical changes in seniors due to pandemic-related restrictions.

## Key findings

- General physical activity remained moderate with an upward trend during the pandemic.
- Mental health declined, with increased anxiety, aggression, and insomnia reported.

## Abstract

Older individuals primarily belong to the group with an increased risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Social distancing and other strategies to mitigate the COVID-19 pandemic may negatively impact the psychophysical parameters of seniors. Objective: The main aim of this study is to analyze the changes in psychophysical parameters among seniors in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic over a one-year observation. Materials and methods: The observation involved 54 respondents aged 60 and above. The study was conducted three times from March 2020 to April 2021. The selected research method was a diagnostic survey based on a questionnaire. Results: The level of general physical activity in the study groups during the pandemic was determined to be moderate with an upward trend. A downward trend in self-assessment of quality of life was observed, particularly in the area of mental health, along with an increase in symptoms of anxiety, aggression, and insomnia. Conclusions: The pandemic period did not significantly affect the level of physical activity among the surveyed seniors, but an intensification of mental symptoms was noticeable.