Shining a Spotlight: The Ramifications of the COVID-19 Pandemic for Older Adults

The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted life globally through virus-related mortality and morbidity and the social and economic impacts of actions taken to stop the virus’ spread. It became evident early in the pandemic that COVID-19 and the strategies adopted to mitigate its effects would have a disproportionate impact on older adults. This special issue of the Journal of Aging & Social Policy reports original empirical research and perspectives on the ramifications of the COVID-19 pandemic for this population. This introductory essay highlights key issues pertaining to the impact of COVID-19 on older adults and their families, caregivers, and communities. The prevalence and susceptibility of COVID-19 infection in the older adult population is discussed, including the devastating consequences of the pandemic for residents and staff of long-term care facilities. This is followed by a brief examination of ageism and social isolation brought to the fore during the pandemic, as well as the adverse effects of the pandemic for the economy and racial and ethnic minority populations. It concludes with an overview of issue content.