Policy Press

COVID-19, Inequality and Older People

Everyday Life during the Pandemic

By Camilla Lewis, Chris Phillipson, Sophie Yarker and Luciana Lang

Published

Jun 12, 2023

Page count

160 pages

ISBN

978-1447367444

Dimensions

234 x 156 mm

Imprint

Policy Press

Published

Jun 12, 2023

Page count

160 pages

ISBN

978-1447367468

Dimensions

234 x 156 mm

Imprint

Policy Press
COVID-19, Inequality and Older People
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This book provides new insights into the challenges facing older people in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.

It draws upon novel qualitative longitudinal research which recorded the experiences of a diverse group of people aged 50+ in Greater Manchester over a 12-month period during the pandemic. The book analyses their lived experiences and those of organisations working to support them, shedding light on the isolating effects of social distancing.

Focusing on interviews with 21 organisations, as well as 102 people from four ethnic/identity groups, the authors argue that the pandemic exacerbated existing inequalities in the UK, disproportionately affecting low-income neighbourhoods and minority ethnic communities.

The book outlines recommendations in relation to developing a ‘community-centred approach’ in responding to future variants of COVID-19, as well as making suggestions for how to create post-pandemic neighbourhoods.

“This timely exploration of the longitudinal impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on diverse older people, their networks and support services provides an invaluable resource for those looking to understand persistent social inequalities and their deadly consequences.” Rose Gilroy, Newcastle University

Camilla Lewis is Lecturer in Architectural Studies at the University of Manchester.

Chris Phillipson is Professor of Sociology and Social Gerontology at the University of Manchester.

Sophie Yarker is Research Fellow in the School of Social Science at the University of Manchester.

Luciana Lang is Research Associate in the School of Social Science at the University of Manchester.

Foreword by Andy Burnham

1. Introduction

2. A sociological analysis of the impact of COVID-19 on older people

3. Methodology of the study

4. Everyday life under lockdown: relationships and routines

5. Experiences of the pandemic: a biographical and longitudinal analysis of four case studies

6. Changes in relationships

7. The role of community organisations and social infrastructure

8. Understanding everyday life during the pandemic

9. COVID-19, inequality and older people: developing community-centred interventions

10. Conclusion