Changes in Consumer Wellness During the Early Weeks of the Pandemic

Abstract

COVID-19 has affected consumers' wellness-related behavior and lifestyle choices. Online survey respondents were asked about changes in their health and wellness perceptions and behaviors—overall wellbeing, diet, physical activity, and sleep—due to the pandemic. Age was related to changes in all four wellness areas, with older respondents experiencing less change than did younger respondents. Race was related to changes in overall well-being, diet, and sleep. Whites and Asians reported less change than did Blacks or Hispanics. Change in sleep was associated with age, race, marital status, and BMI. Educating consumers on healthy behaviors is more important than ever during COVID-19.