COVID-19 Vaccination Intentions Among Unvaccinated Older Adults in Thailand

Strategic Insights -

A cross-sectional study published in the Journal of Applied Gerontology has shed light on the vaccination intentions of unvaccinated older adults in Thailand, a crucial aspect in combating COVID-19. The study sampled 360 Thai older adults who had not received any COVID-19 vaccines, focusing on factors associated with greater vaccination intention. The research found that higher perceived susceptibility to COVID-19, greater perceived benefits of vaccination, and not having a family history of COVID-19 were significant factors influencing vaccination intentions.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study highlights the need for targeted communication strategies to improve vaccine uptake among older adults in the post-pandemic context.
  • A convenience sample of 360 Thai older adults who had not received any COVID-19 vaccines as of the study date was recruited.
  • Factors associated with greater vaccination intention included higher perceived susceptibility to COVID-19, greater perceived benefits of vaccination, and not having a family history of COVID-19.
  • The World Health Organization (WHO) declared the end of the COVID-19 public health emergency on May 5, 2023, but a substantial proportion of older adults remains unvaccinated.
  • The study's findings emphasize the importance of addressing specific perceptions and experiences to improve vaccine uptake among older adults.
  • Chiang Mai University researchers investigated vaccination intentions among unvaccinated older adults in the post-pandemic phase, focusing on a gap in the literature.

Statistics:

  • 360 Thai older adults participated in the study, which aimed to investigate vaccination intentions in the post-pandemic context.
  • 100% vaccination coverage in older adults was the goal set by the WHO, but a substantial proportion remains unvaccinated.
  • May 5, 2023, marked the end of the COVID-19 public health emergency as declared by the WHO.

Sources:

Post-pandemic Covid-19 Vaccination Intention Among Unvaccinated Older Adults. Journal of Applied Gerontology, 2025.

Vaccine Weekly. July 30, 2025; p 18.