Coping With Uncertainty: Use of Contemplative Practices Amid a Pandemic
N. Lekhak, T. Bhatta, T. Goler, Eva Kahana
Innovation in Aging December 1, 2021 DOI: 10.1093/geroni/igab046.509 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Observational survey (cross-sectional, web-based) Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 1,861 |
| Population | Older adults in the United States during the COVID-19 pandemic |
| Interventions | Meditation Prayer Yoga |
| Topics | Meditation |
| Key findings | Women and higher-educated respondents reported significantly greater use of meditation and yoga, while women and Black respondents reported significantly greater use of prayer. Contrary to prior studies, Black respondents reported greater use of meditative practices than White respondents. Older adults with higher anxiety were significantly more likely to practice meditation and yoga. |
Abstract
Abstract Contemplative practices have been used as coping resources to reduce the negative influences of adverse life situations on mental health. The COVID-19 pandemic has disproportionately impacted older adults, causing immense uncertainty, stress, and anxiety. By using data from our “Coping with Pandemic” nationwide web-based survey (n=1861), we examine the utilization of practices such as meditation, prayer, and yoga across social, economic, and health status during the pandemic. Consistent with studies conducted before the pandemic, we find significantly greater utilization of meditation and yoga among women and higher educated individuals. Findings showed significantly greater usage of prayer among women and Blacks. Unlike previous studies, we documented greater usage of meditative practices among Blacks than Whites. Older adults with higher anxiety were significantly more likely to practice meditation and yoga. Our study offers much needed guidance for future intervention studies aimed at improving mental health among diverse groups of older adults.