The COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil: everyday life analysis and group intervention outcomes

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has abruptly changed the everyday life of the population, especially of people in social distancing. Thus, using a qualitative methodology, we sought to analyze the changes in the everyday lives of Brazilians in social distancing and the possible contributions of occupational therapy in telehealth groups. The research was carried out in a virtual format using the technique of focus groups to collect the narratives. The meetings, which lasted approximately 90 min, occurred in the second half of 2020. The meetings were transcribed, analyzed, and categorized by the interpretive phenomenological method. Four categories were found, namely, changes in emotional states, changes in everyday life, political crossings and the pandemic, and from grouping to virtual grouping. Disruptions in everyday life were noticed, as well as the formation of a mutual help group. Remote assistance in occupational therapy contributed to health care emergencies as it allowed moments of reflection in the participants’ everyday lives.