A survey of knowledge, attitude and practice of the older people about COVID-19 pandemic in Isfahan, Iran

Abstract

Objectives. Clinical evidence suggests that the COVID-19 disease is more severe in the endangered populations. The purpose of this study was to investigate knowledge, attitude and practice of older people in Iran toward COVID-19 disease as a high risk group. Methods. A cross sectional study of 249 older people was conducted, using a researcher-made questionnaire. Data analysis was performed using descriptive and analytical statistics, using generalized linear model using the Gamma probability distribution model. Results. Mean scores of knowledge, attitude and practice of the older people were 92.3 +/- 10.8, 89.1 +/- 14.3 and 90.4 +/- 13.4 respectively and were not significantly different from the sex and history of underlying diseases (p > 0.05). At generalized linear model there were no significant relationship between the older people age and their mean scores of knowledge (p > 0.05), but significant relationship between level of education and knowledge score (p < 0.001) and age and attitude, and age and practice (p < 0.5), adjusted for age > 80 years. Conclusions. This study is among the first to assess knowledge, attitudes and practice of older people toward the COVID-19 pandemic in Iran. The results indicated that the general education about the disease and follow-up of responsible organizations has been effective and these interventions need to continue.