ABSTRACTVariables related to social distancing can have negative effects on the emotional
well-being and cognition of adults and the elderly.Objective:The aim of this study was to analyze the available studies that address the
relationship between situations of social distancing, socioemotional
aspects, and cognition in the lives of mature and older adults.Methods:A literature review study was carried out between December 2021 and January
2022, involving the SciELO, PubMed, and ScienceDirect databases, with
studies published between February 2018 and December 2021.Results:A total of 754 studies were identified, and after selection, 18 were
included. Notably, 16 showed significant effects of social distancing on
cognition and socioemotional aspects, that is, the greater the social
distancing, the lower the capacity for cognitive performance and the higher
the index of symptoms of depression and anxiety, for example.Conclusions:Greater engagement in social activities and a closer contact with friends and
family are protective factors against symptoms of depression and anxiety and
cognitive decline.