Association between functionality and knowledge, attitudes, and practices of COVID-19 prevention in the older people

Abstract

Objective

To analyze the association between functionality and knowledge, attitudes, and practices of COVID-19 prevention in the elderly population of Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil.

Method

A cross-sectional study with remote data collection conducted between June and September 2020, involving 144 elderly individuals of both sexes who were served at COVID-19 reference points in eight districts. The dependent variable, knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to COVID-19 prevention, collected through the CAP Survey, was constructed using Latent Class Analysis. The primary independent variable was functionality in Instrumental Activities of Daily Living, collected through the Lawton and Brody scale. Data analysis utilized chi-square tests and multiple multinomial logistic regression analysis, with a significance level of 5%.

Results

The majority of the participants, 44%, exhibited regular knowledge and attitudes with good COVID-19 prevention practices. Independent participants had 4.26 times greater odds (95% CI: 1.46; 12.38) of possessing excellent knowledge, attitudes, and prevention practices for the disease. Those with higher levels of education had 3.89 times greater odds (95% CI: 1.16; 12.99) of having excellent knowledge, attitudes, and practices compared to those with no education. Both comparisons considered a 95% confidence interval.

Conclusion

COVID-19 prevention was influenced by functionality, indicating that greater functional independence led to better prevention among the elderly. This understanding directs public policies and actions aimed at the importance of disease prevention in the elderly population, as well as promoting healthy aging.

Keywords
Aged; COVID-19; Disease prevention; Functional status