Adapting Healthcare for Older Adults During the Prolonged COVID-19 Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic, which emerged in late 2019, significantly disrupted healthcare systems worldwide, with long-lasting effects, especially on vulnerable populations such as older adults. As the pandemic extended over multiple waves, researchers sought to understand how elderly individuals adapted to these challenges, emphasizing the importance of maintaining healthcare access amid ongoing health crises.

During the initial outbreak, strict measures like social distancing, lockdowns, and mask mandates were implemented globally. Older adults, being more susceptible to severe COVID-19 outcomes, faced increased risks and consequently often avoided seeking necessary medical care due to fear of infection or restrictions. While initial responses have been well-documented, the long-term impact on healthcare utilization among seniors remained less understood.

A pioneering study by Waseda University researchers focused on Japan, one of the world’s most aged societies with a comprehensive universal healthcare system. The study analyzed healthcare utilization trends among older adults aged 75 and above during the extended phase from November 2021 to September 2022. The team comprised experts from various faculties, including Commerce, Education, Political Science, and Human Sciences.

Their research utilized extensive data, including nearly 190 million medical claims linked to income tax records, to evaluate how health care access changed during the prolonged pandemic. They found that while precautionary measures led to a slight decrease in outpatient visits and overall medical service utilization, healthcare costs and service stability were largely maintained. There were variations across regions, influenced by the severity of local crises and implemented safety protocols.

Interestingly, no significant disparities in healthcare utilization were observed across income groups, except in dental care. Seniors with lower incomes visited dental providers less frequently during the pandemic, highlighting socioeconomic disparities in accessing dental health services during emergencies.

The findings point to the importance of adaptable healthcare systems that can revise delivery methods, such as remote consultations, mobile health services, and enhanced safety practices, to ensure continued access for vulnerable elderly populations during crises. These strategies can help prevent delays in necessary care, reduce health risks, and address socioeconomic inequalities.

Lead author Rong Fu emphasized the critical need for health systems globally to sustain access for aging populations during emergencies. Her team’s insights were published in "Scientific Reports" in April 2025, offering valuable guidance for policymakers and healthcare providers.

Overall, the research highlights that with appropriate adaptations, healthcare delivery can effectively serve older adults during prolonged health crises, safeguarding their well-being and minimizing long-term negative impacts.