Unchained Melody: Lived Experiences of the Elderly of La Trinidad, Benguet During the Covid-19 Pandemic/

Abstract

The outbreak of Corona Virus infection 2019 (COVID-19) has created a global health crisis that has deeply affected the manner in which we see our reality and our regular daily existences. This study aims to depict and comprehend the encounters of the elderly population of La Trinidad during the COVID-19 pandemic with the expectation of drawing insights of knowledge and exercises that could affect public and wellbeing strategies and practices. The study utilized Husserl's descriptive design to focus on the narratives obtained during the interview sessions with the participants. There were 33 participants from the different barangays of La Trinidad, Benguet that were interviewed for this study. data gathered was analyzed through Colaizzi's method. The elderly population experienced limited freedom which disrupted their physical activities especially going to social gatherings and exercise activities. Loss of job is also one the great impact of the pandemic to them which led to financial struggles. Despite all the struggles faced by the elderly population, they were able to stay hopeful and grateful that they are still alive. The healthcare providers for each barangay should effectively educate the elderly population about the COVID-19 infection. Future researchers should consider studying about the coping mechanism of the elderly population during the pandemic. The research also recommends future nurses to study and strategize activities that the elderly population can do during pandemics.