Perceptions of Older Patients in Terms of their Healthcare in South Africa During the COVID-19 Pandemic

South Africa has a younger as compared to an older population like those in Europe and America. The healthcare system is thus arguably geared towards the care, both physical and psychological, of those below 60 years of age. Older persons often find the term ‘geriatric patient’ on their files and referral letters. This affects their perceptions of themselves, and many find it disrespectful. It also makes them feel ashamed of themselves in terms of ageing and becoming frail and unable to care for themselves. The aim of the research was to explore how older persons perceived their healthcare in terms of how they were talked to and treated. Positive psychology underpinned the study and was used to explore if the patients had positive emotions with regard to their care and if the engagement and relationships with both healthcare workers and their families was constructive. The research used a qualitative approach with a phenomenological research design. The sample was purposive in nature and used a snowball technique. Interviews were conducted with 6 ‘geriatric’ patients (2 males and 4 females) during the COVID-19 pandemic and analysed using Thematic Analysis (TA). Findings revealed that the meanings these patients found covered several themes namely: (1) No one listens; (2) Older age is equated with feeblemindedness; (3) When did my children become my parents? (4) Healthcare is gendered; (5) Shame related to the ageing process. Theme (6) Unable to feel positive. Recommendations were that education and training on how to treat older patients is required in all levels of the healthcare system and also at the family level.