Affective impact of the COVID-19 pandemic among older adults in the CLSA

Data from several international sources suggests that the COVID-19 pandemic has had a substantial impact on the mental health of those of all ages, including older adults. There appear to be significant sex and age differences in this respect, such that women are experiencing higher levels of affective symptomology (i.e., anxiety and depression) than men, and older more so than younger. Much of the existing data, however, is based on samples from the United States and Europe, and relatively little Canadian data has been made available, particularly of a prospective nature. The purpose of the proposed research is to examine absolute levels and temporal trends in affective symptomology among Canadian older adults in the CLSA, and to examine age and sex differences therein over time. We will also test SES and affective disorder history as potential modifiers of age effects on affective outcomes.