Changes in the Lives of Middle-Aged Adults and Their Educational Needs During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

Throughout history, various epidemics have affected societies socially, economically, and psychologically by causing problems for humanity. COVID-19 epidemic, which started in Wuhan, China late in December, 2019 and has caused and continues to cause, millions of people in the world to get infected and a significant number of people to lose their lives. Considering the pandemic process that we are experiencing, this study aims to identify changes in the lives of middle-aged adults and their educational needs during the COVID-19 pandemic. In this case, 19 individuals who live in different socio-economic regions of Turkey participated in the study, based on qualitative research design, voluntarily, were interviewed. The data collected through a demographic information form, a semi-structured interview form, and a story completion form developed by the researchers were analyzed through content analysis. As a result of the study, it was revealed that negative psychological and economic impacts emerged; observed differences in hygiene, diet, and social life behaviors; and participants wanted to receive education on public health, COVID-19 pandemic, and information technologies.