Knowledge, attitude, and practice towards COVID-19, among an elderly population in Sri Lanka: A cross-sectional study
Background: Elderly people are at high risk for adverse
effects from SARS-CoV-2 infection. Therefore, to prevent and lower the fatality
rate of COVID-19 among elderly people, determining the knowledge, attitude and
practice of the elderly population towards COVID-19 is needed.
Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the knowledge,
attitude and practice (KAP) towards COVID-19, among an elderly population in
Western province, Sri Lanka.
Results: A descriptive cross-sectional study was
conducted among 414 elderly persons in the Western province, Sri Lanka. Data
were collected using a pre-tested, self-administered/interview-based
questionnaire. SPSS version 26 was used for the analysis of the study. Among
the total participants (n=414), most respondents (80.68%) had good knowledge
regarding COVID-19. Most of the participants (76.81%) were in good attitude
category regarding COVID-19. Regarding practices towards COVID-19, the majority
of participants (87.19%) had a good practice level. Total knowledge level was
significantly associated with attitude level p<0.001 and practice level
p<0.001 towards COVID-19.
Conclusion: Imparting knowledge, increasing good behavioral change, and
strengthening preventive practices towards COVID-19 prevention is the best
solution for pandemic control.
Keywords
COVID-19
,
Knowledge
,
Attitude
,
Practice
,
Elderly population
Related Articles