Table 4.

Open‐Ended Responses on Social Connections During the COVID‐19 Pandemic

Group	Theme	Illustrative quotations
Limited social interaction	Difficulty navigating technology	“Computer and I have been fight[ing] since the day I got it–it can be such a monster.”
		“I answered ‘left out' because I do not have a working tablet to get on the Internet from my apartment.”
		“I really wish I could use the computer . . . It's time I learn a little technology. I'll be stuck at home; the world will pass me by. All my friends are on the Internet.”
		“There are always problems with cable and telephone and no to one to help with the problems.”
	Difficulty getting help with functional needs	“The floors have not been washed in our hallways for 4 weeks, and cockroaches are spreading.”
		“I think social isolation has been overdone in San Francisco. Seniors need bus lines for transportation to carry out their own essential tasks that need to be completed” (go to the bank, get medications, maintain independence, catch a bus).”
		“I'm starting to notice feeling more vulnerable from eyesight change . . . gives me a hurdle with going to a grocery store . . . especially with no busses in my neighborhood.”
	Limited engagement with broader social network	“I only see my daughter, son‐in‐law, and two young grandchildren. I have not been out except to the garden, to take 30‐ to 45‐minute walks; I have not been in any shops.
		“I feel some sadness in knowing that both my age and the time this will take to stabilize might prevent me from ever traveling easily and freely again in my life. It is a reality that I have to accept.”
		“I used to be around people all the time like going to church or grocery shopping. There is now no human contact because of the virus.”
Maintained social interactions	Technology	“I have learned more . . . [about] technology . . . I had opportunity to help other people through technology.”
		“I am communicating more than ever, I have a new friend . . . I guess I want to say I am better with technology.”
		“I do not like using technology but do because it is the means to communicate.”
		“The majority of my activities and Drs. visits can be done by Zoom. I have help from granddaughter or others if I have a technology issue. I am trying to update my skills.”
	Community engagement	“Zoom opportunities have substituted for some religious and exercise programs that I previously would attend in person.”
		“I do some Zoom stuff like Zoom exercise and book club.”
	Finding Help	“I have great support through organizations like Curry Senior Center.”
		“The Healing Well is the agency that calls me every day and sends me things in the mail. That's a good thing.”