An interpretative phenomenological analysis of the lived experiences of older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic in Sweden

The COVID-19 pandemic led many countries to impose restrictions on the movement and behaviour of their populations. Swedish authorities took another route, largely adopting voluntary disease control, with particularly strict recommendations targeting people over the age of 70. The present study sought to explore the lived experiences of eight older adults (four men and four women) aged 71-82 in Sweden, of living during a pandemic using diaries across a 14-day period followed by interviews. From an interpretative phenomenological analysis, three themes emerged: (a) a life on hold (b), caring for body and soul, and (c) putting things into perspective. The results revealed that the participants adapted to the circumstances and adhered to the recommendations. They cared for their physical and psychological health by engaging in physical activities, structuring their days, and by finding adaptive ways to engage with family and friends. Nostalgia for pre-pandemic time seemed to bring meaning to their present situation, and participants identified with being privileged in their living situation. The study highlights protective factors throughout the pandemic. However, more studies need to be made to understand the experiences of the pandemic of more vulnerable groups of older adults.