Effectiveness of an educational intervention on the level of knowledge of COVID-19 in older adults

Abstract

Introduction: the need for admission and mortality in older adults infected with COVID-19 is greater than in the general population, with knowledge about the disease determining risk perception and prevention. Objective: to evaluate the impact of an educational intervention on the level of knowledge of COVID-19 in older adults. Method: non-observational, quasi-experimental, before-after study without a control group, through an educational intervention in older adults belonging to the "Wilfredo Santana" Teaching Polyclinic between April and May 2020. The sample consisted of 84 older adults. The research was carried out during three predefined periods: diagnosis, intervention and evaluation. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used. Results: patients predominated in the age group between 70 and 79 years (38,10 %), and female (54,76 %). A significant increase (p<0,05) was observed after the educational intervention of the adequate level of knowledge about the generalities of the COVID-19 (29,76 % vs. 66,66 %), the sanitary measures necessary to contain the contagion ( 19,04 % vs 73,8 %), and on warning signs and symptoms (16,66 % vs 64,28 %). 40,48 % of the older adults studied presented an inadequate level of general knowledge before the intervention, while after it, 97,62 % presented adequate levels. Conclusions: the application of the educational intervention had a favorable impact on the level of knowledge of older adults; guaranteeing tools to confront COVID-19 in this highly vulnerable population group.

Keywords

• adulto mayor
• infecciones por coronavirus
• educación en salud
• promoción de la salud
• servicios preventivos de salud