Effects of self-isolation policy on the psychosocial state (condition) of senior citizens in Nigeria, Pakistan and South Africa

Abstract

This study presents a cross-country comparison of the psychosocial effects of the COVID-19 self-isolation policy (SIP) on senior citizens in Nigeria, Pakistan, and South Africa. Specifically, it examines seniors’ perceptions of self-isolation and its impact on their health, social interactions, attitudes, behaviours, and psychological well-being. A cross-sectional comparative design was employed using an online questionnaire adapted from Hughes' (2004) short-scale loneliness measure. Data were collected between June 6 and August 3, 2020, via social media platforms (WhatsApp, Facebook, Skype), with a total of 350 respondents selected through a multistage sampling procedure. Descriptive statistics and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) were used for analysis. Results revealed that SIP was perceived as detrimental to seniors’ health. The mean scores for Nigeria = 3.10; Pakistan = 3.08; South Africa = 3.05, causing anxiety, sleep disturbances, x? = 3.37, 3.15, 3.64, reduced physical activity and social participation, x? = 3.08, 3.18, 3.44, and negatively affecting mental and emotional well-being, x? = 3.02, 3.05, 3.16. Fear of death was more pronounced in Pakistan, x? = 3.53, and South Africa, x? = 3.44, while loneliness was more reported in Nigeria, x? = 3.08 and South Africa. Significant differences emerged across countries in experiences of fear (F = 15.350, p < .001), anxiety (F = 6.265, p = .014), and general psychosocial outcomes (p < .01), underscoring the influence of cultural, social, and policy contexts. The findings suggest the urgent need for culturally responsive mental health and social support strategies for elderly populations during public health emergencies.