Factors Associated With Influenza Vaccination During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Older Adults Residing in Brazil.

The current study aimed to assess influenza vaccination coverage and explore factors related to vaccine uptake in older adults in 2020 amid the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. A cross-sectional study using an online questionnaire was performed with 380 older adults (aged ≥60 years), living in Brazil, from May 26 to June 29, 2020. Data regarding sociodemographic, health, and social support variables were collected. Data were analyzed using Poisson regression with robust variance. Influenza vaccination coverage in the sample was 85.5% (95% confidence interval [81.6, 88.7]). Older adults with increased age had higher vaccination coverage, whereas those who were smokers, not wearing masks, and sometimes and never/almost never received professional support had lower vaccination rates. Data show that vaccine coverage for influenza in 2020 was below that recommended by Brazilian authorities. We reinforce the importance of information about the influenza vaccine, especially for younger older adults, smokers, and those who do not wear masks. Reliable information from health care professionals and the media is essential for vaccination during a pandemic. [Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 49(5), 31-38.].

Factors associated with depressive and anxiety symptoms in older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic: a Brazilian study.

Objectives: Older adults are one of the most vulnerable age groups to the social distance measures imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aimed to assess factors associated with depressive and anxiety symptoms in Brazilian older adults during the pandemic.Method: This cross-sectional online study assessed 380 older adults (over 60 years of age) living in Brazil, from 26th May 2020 to 29th June 2020. A self-reported questionnaire included sociodemographic data, lifestyle, health characteristics, and the COVID-19 related variables. The Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) and the Geriatric Anxiety Inventory (GAI) were also applied. Data were analyzed via logistic regression models, using a hierarchical approach.Results: The prevalence of depressive symptoms according to GDS was 28.7% (95% CI = 24.4%, 33.4%) and the prevalence of anxiety symptoms according to GAI was 26.1% (95% CI = 21.9%, 30.7%). Physically inactive older adults, the ones who were in social isolation for more days, feel much vulnerable to contracting COVID-19, and never or almost never receive support from family/friends were more likely to have depressive symptoms. Being female, physically inactive or physically active 1-3 times/week, feel very vulnerable to contracting COVID-19 and never or almost never receive support from family/friends were associated with the anxiety symptoms.Conclusion: A high prevalence of depressive and anxious symptoms was identified in Brazilian older adults. The data can help in planning interventions aimed at older adults, also including their families, health professionals, and the whole society.