Mental health aspects of the geriatric population: Focus on COVID-19 outbreak

The new coronavirus has had a multifaceted impact on humans and has affected nearly everyone, some more than the other. The elderly is one such population, which has been hit in various ways. They are a vulnerable group of being the frequent victim of the infection and also getting succumbed to it. In addition, the mental health issues posed by the effect of this pandemic and the measures adopted to curb its spread have taken a toll and probably would continue long after this is over. In the scenario, with respect to geriatric mental health, emphasis may be made on individual and societal responsibilities rather than solely depending on the specialized mental health-care services. This article observes the vulnerabilities and mental health issues of the elderly in relation to this pandemic and possible measures at various levels.