The Situation of Individuals Aged 70+ Years During the Corona Lockdown in Germany on the Example of the Population-based AugUR Study

Abstract Background: Individuals aged 70+ were most threatened by COVID-19 and most targeted by shielding recommendations. However, there is limited understanding of the situation of this high-risk population during lockdown. Methods: We derived information via a written self-completion questionnaire sent out to our population-based AugUR study participants (aged 70+, living in/near Regensburg, Germany) shortly after the lift of the curfew in spring 2020 in Bavaria, Germany. This was combined with data from previous AugUR study center visits including medical history assessment, medical exams, and bio-probing, which enabled the comparison of pre- and during-pandemic assessments in the very same individuals. Results: Among 1,850 survey participants (73–98 years; net-response 89%), 74% were at increased risk for severe COVID-19 according to medical conditions (75% extrapolated to the German population aged 70+). Despite 92% have potentially been exposed, only four reported SARS-CoV-2 infection (0.2%). COVID-19 related symptoms were reported by 23%. Regarding lifestyle changes since lockdown, we found no trend towards increased smoking or drinking alcohol, but 34% reported increased sedentary behavior and 29% refrained from medical appointments. Worse QOL was perceived by 38%. Particularly women and the more educated were susceptible to these changes. When comparing lifestyle differences between survey and previous visit, the pattern was similar. Conclusions: Our presented data will help understand the situation of this vulnerable group in the pandemic. While a majority of individuals reported no changes towards a less healthy life style, about one third would benefit from help to sustain a healthy lifestyle when accommodating future strategies.