1 in 3 elderly unprepared for living with endemic COVID-19

An SMU study suggests that unpreparedness is linked with government trust.

About 30% or one in three elderly in Singapore said they are not prepared for living with endemic COVID-19, research by
Singapore Management University's (SMU) Centre for Research on Successful Ageing (ROSA) showed.

Based on the study, the level of trust that older adults have in the government significantly shapes the level of perceived infection and mortality risk from COVID-19.

“Older adults who did not trust the government’s response to the COVID-19 situation in Singapore were four times more likely to feel unprepared,” the study stated.

ROSA said elderly who do not trust the government may also “be more inclined to mistrust pandemic information put forth by the government.”

When asked about their opinions on government safety measures, 86.7% expressed concerns about Vaccinated Travel Lanes, and 2.92% expressed reluctance to get a booster shot.

Given the findings, ROSA suggested for authorities “to keep in mind that maintaining trust in the government is an important means to reducing the perceived risk of infection and mortality, a likely source of stress for older adults.”

To do such, ROSA said the government can provide “ clear and consistent messaging with regards to issues relating to COVID-19, as well as transparency in and accountability for COVID-19 policies that are enacted.”

The study also suggested that the government organise and develop social activities for older adults that can still be conducted despite restrictions.