Factors influencing the decision to uptake COVID-19 vaccine based on the Theoretical Domain Framework: A mixed methods study of older adults in Singapore

Age Well SG strand: Strengthen support for seniors with care needs in the community

Principal Investigator: Dr Yu Chou Chuen (Research Fellow, GERI)

Gap: Vaccine hesitancy is a major barrier that all governments are facing, especially in the light of the past COVID-19 pandemic. Understanding the perspectives of Singapore’s older adults regarding vaccination is crucial, as it can inform the tailoring of interventions and campaigns to encourage vaccine uptake.

Solution: This mixed-methods study, guided by the Theoretical Domains Framework, aimed to identify the barriers and facilitators influencing vaccination decisions among older adults in Singapore. It examined perceptions and attitudes of older adults, and their outlook on COVID-19 vaccination support and anti-vaccination concepts.

Anticipated Impact: Study findings have been presented at six scientific conferences and presentations to funders and collaborators; in addition, it will also be disseminated in an upcoming journal article. These insights from the study can be used to tailor and design more effective health behaviour messaging in future pandemics, such as in campaigns to encourage vaccine uptake among older adults.

Duration: Dec 2021 to May 2024