ISSN : 2663-2187

Impact of Lockdown on Quality of Life of Working Women due to COVID-19 Pandemic in Vadodara, Gujarat, India

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Grishma Chauhan,Nilesh Patel
ยป doi: 10.48047/AFJBS.6.7.2024.2416-2420

Abstract

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, led to global health crises and widespread lockdowns. In India, the lockdown from March 2020 severely impacted working women, who had to balance professional responsibilities with increased domestic duties. This study investigates the impact of the lockdown on the quality of life of working women in Vadodara, Gujarat, focusing on their experiences and challenges. Methodology: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted among 128 working women in Vadodara, Gujarat, who experienced the lockdown from May to July 2020. Data were collected through an anonymous survey approved by the ethical committee of Sumandeep Vidyapeeth Deemed to be University. The survey included socio-demographic data, experiences during the lockdown, and qualitative data from open-ended questions. Analysis aimed to identify trends, challenges, and coping mechanisms. Results: The respondents, aged 25 to 47 years (mean age 30.5 years), were mostly highly educated (72% postgraduate, 28% Ph.D. scholars). Family size varied, with 60% in nuclear families and 40% in joint families. Occupationally, 50% were in academia, 20% in physiotherapy, 20% as teachers, and 10% in other professions. Emotional challenges included stress (45%), anxiety (30%), and mood swings (25%). Coping mechanisms involved watching TV series (30%), sleeping (25%), work distractions (20%), and meditation/exercise (15%). Main challenges were balancing responsibilities (35%), maintaining safety (35%), and lack of daily living items (15%). Discussion: The lockdown significantly impacted the quality of life of working women in Vadodara. Key challenges included balancing work and household duties, managing mental health, and coping with job and financial insecurity. These findings align with existing literature on the pandemic's disproportionate impact on women. The study highlights the need for targeted support, such as mental health resources and flexible work arrangements, to mitigate these challenges. Conclusion: This study emphasizes the critical need for policies supporting working women during crises. Providing mental health support, flexible work options, and better access to essential services are crucial for helping women balance professional and personal responsibilities during and after such events.

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