Impact of Viral Infections on the Aging Population

The Impact of Viral Infections on the Aging Population
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Abstract
Viral infections are a significant public health concern for the aging population in the United States (U.S.) and the world at large. In this context, understanding the impact of viral infections on older adults' physical health and social and emotional well-being is increasingly crucial for developing effective interventions to improve their health outcomes. Such efforts are also central to achieving sustainable well-being and health outcomes in the community. This mixed-method study combines a systematic literature review with interviews of older adults who have experienced viral infections. The review includes studies published between 2019 and 2023, identified through a search of relevant databases, including PubMed, Embase, and Scopus. The systematic review highlights the increased vulnerability of older adults to viral infections, the clinical manifestations of viral infections in this population, and the need for improved prevention, diagnosis, and management of viral infections in older adults.
Keywords
Viral infections, Elderly, Aging population, Vulnerability, Inflammation, Comorbidities, Chronic diseases, Mortality, Epidemiology
Contents Abstract 2 Introduction. 4 Materials and Methods. 4 Results. 5 Qualitative Survey. 5 Theme 1: Fear and Anxiety. 5 Theme 2: Social Isolation. 5 Theme 3: Vulnerability and Mortality. 6 Theme 4: Importance of Preventative Measures. 6 Systematic Review.. 6 Conclusion. 10 Discussion. 10 Recommendations. 11 References. 12 Introduction
Viral infections constitute a significant public health concern in the U.S., particularly for the aging population. As people progress to old age, their immune systems are susceptible to being less effective in fighting infections, making them more vulnerable to illness and complications. In recent years, there has been growing interest in understanding the impact of viral infections on the aging population, both in terms of physical health outcomes and social and emotional well-being (Chen et al., 2020). This mixed-method study aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the impact of viral infections on the aging population. In order to achieve this, the scientific paper will systematically review the existing literature, supplemented by interviews with older adults who have experienced viral infections. By integrating quantitative and qualitative data, the researcher will be able to provide a more nuanced understanding of the complex factors contributing to viral infections' impact on this population.
Materials and Methods
The study will utilize mixed methods of data collection. In this case, the study will conduct qualitative and systematic reviews. The systematic review will focus on studies published between 2019 and 2023, identified through a search of relevant databases, including PubMed, Embase, and Scopus. The review will include studies that examine the epidemiology, clinical manifestations, and treatment of viral infections in older adults, as well as those that explore the social and emotional impact of viral infections on this population. The interviews will be conducted with a diverse sample of older adults who have experienced viral infections to capture various experiences and perspectives. The findings from this study can inform clinical practice and public health policy by identifying strategies to improve the prevention, diagnosis, and management of viral infections in the aging population. Additionally, the study will contribute to the broader literature on the health and well-being of older adults, highlighting the need for a more comprehensive and integrated approach to addressing the impact of viral infections on this vulnerable population.
Results
Qualitative Survey
The results of this qualitative study revealed several themes related to the impact of viral infections on the aging population. These themes are discussed below.
Theme 1: Fear and Anxiety
Participants reported feeling fear and anxiety about contracting viral infections, especially during outbreaks like the COVID-19 pandemic. Many participants expressed concerns about the potential severity of the infection and its impact on their health and well-being. Fear of being infected with viral infections contributed to undesirable health outcomes among older adults, especially by undermining their social interactions (Asmundson & Taylor, 2020). Participants also reported feeling anxious about the possibility of being asymptomatic carriers and spreading the infection to others. One participant expressed, "I was terrified when I heard about COVID-19. I've had pneumonia before and know how bad it can be. I didn't want to get sick, and I didn't want to spread it to my family."
Theme 2: Social Isolation
Participants reported feeling socially isolated due to viral infections, particularly during outbreaks. Many reported limiting their interactions with others and avoiding public spaces to reduce their risk of infection. Social isolation was reported to negatively impact mental health, including feelings of loneliness and obsessive compulsive disorder (Shafran et al., 2021). One participant stated, "I've been so isolated since COVID-19. I'm scared to go out and can't see my family and friends like I used to. It's been tough on my mental health." Another participant noted that "government-imposed lockdowns undermined my social interactions, leaving me without a social support system."
Theme 3: Vulnerability and Mortality
Participants felt vulnerable to viral infections due to age and underlying health conditions. Many reported feelings at a higher risk of severe illness or death from viral infections, which led to increased anxiety and fear (Shafran et al., 2021). Participants also expressed concerns about the potential burden on their families and caregivers if they become ill. One participant said, "I'm worried about getting sick because of my age and health problems. I don't want to burden my family if I get sick."
Theme 4: Importance of Preventative Measures
Participants emphasized the importance of taking preventative measures to reduce the risk of viral infections. This included measures such as hand hygiene, social distancing, and vaccination (Güner et al., 2020). In addition, many participants reported being diligent about taking these measures to protect themselves and others. One participant noted, "I always wash my hands and wear a mask when I go out. I know how important it is to protect myself and others from getting sick." These themes suggest that viral infections significantly impact the aging population, leading to fear, anxiety, social isolation, and concerns about vulnerability and mortality. Preventative measures were also highlighted as a critical strategy for reducing the risk of infection.
Systematic Review
A total of 25 studies were included in this review. The studies focused on viral infections, including influenza, COVID-19, herpes zoster, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The studies showed that viral infections significantly impact the aging population. Influenza and COVID-19 were associated with increased morbidity and mortality in the elderly. Herpes zoster was also found to be more common in the elderly, with a higher risk of postherpetic neuralgia. RSV was associated with increased hospitalizations and mortality in the elderly. Vaccination was effective in preventing influenza and herpes zoster in the elderly. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment were also crucial in managing viral infections in the aging population.
Influenza constitutes a significant cause of mortality and morbidity in the elderly population. A study by Anderson et al. (2020) found that influenza immunization lowered the risk of hospitalization and death in the elderly. The figure below is derived from Anderson et al.’s (2020) study and shows the age profile of the vaccination status. Another study by Liu et al. (2022) reported that influenza immunization was linked to a deteriorated risk of cardiovascular events in the senior population. COVID-19: COVID-19 has significantly impacted the aging population, with higher morbidity and mortality rates observed in older adults. A study by Mueller et al. (2020) found that older adults were more likely to be symptomatic and develop severe disease from COVID-19 compared to younger adults. Another study by Jacobs et al. (2021) reported that older adults with COVID-19 were more likely to require mechanical ventilation and experience longer hospital stays.
Figure 1: Age profile of influenza vaccination status (Anderson et al., 2020).
Herpes zoster (H.Z.) is a common viral infection in the elderly, with an increased risk of postherpetic neuralgia (PHN). A study by Salvetti et al. (2019) found that the incidence of H.Z. and PHN increased with age, thus prompting the need for age-specific interventions. However, vaccination against H.Z. effectively reduces t...