An investigation of mental health, social isolation and loneliness among older African migrants in Australia during COVID-19

Background/Objectives: Social isolation, loneliness, and mental health challenges among older people have been a global problem long before the advent of COVID-19. In Australia, there are many reports of how COVID-19 has worsened older people’s mental health, social isolation and loneliness experiences. However, the narratives have focused on the general population with little attention being paid to migrants from minority groups who have traditionally relied on informal social networks. Methods: In this study, we employed community-based participatory research, supported by thematic analysis, to investigate how 21 older West African migrants in Greater Sydney experienced social isolation and loneliness during the COVID-19 pandemic and the coping strategies they adopted. Results: The findings show a growing trend in weakening social connectivity, exacerbated by COVID-19, resulting in significant social impacts, mental health concerns, and daily lifestyle changes. There is a greater concern about mental health experiences, including fear, anxiety, confusion, and depression. Participants noted forming new habits, such as watching movies and learning new digital technological skills, as the main coping strategies, which enabled them to connect with churches and other organisations. However, their coping strategies adopted were provisional, unsustainable, and uncoordinated. Conclusions: There is a need for locally government-supported activities that foster and sustain social interaction, as well as more community-led and locally supported initiatives that can alleviate social isolation and loneliness during global pandemics.