One on one conversations with a trusted person tops the list as most effective approach.

In a January 2021 survey of LeadingAge members, the vast majority of respondents said the most effective strategy in allaying concerns was holding private, one to one, listening-oriented conversations with a trusted person such as the medical director, a respected nurse, one’s own physician, a chaplain or a knowledgeable peer. Bioethics experts back this up. Conversations should be open and non-judgmental. Provide information and resources to correct misperceptions and calm fears.

People are reluctant to get the COVID-19 vaccine for many reasons.

As you listen to the concerns people have about receiving the vaccine, there are likely to be some themes. These include:

• Fear of side effects
• Dislike of needles/ injections
• Fear of vaccine safety
• Concern about the intersection of the vaccine and reproductive health
• Concern that immunity may be short-lived
• Historic and ongoing systemic injustices and mistreatment
• Belief that COVID-19 only causes serious illness in older adults
• Misinformation from social media or friends and family
• Religious, cultural or social beliefs

Aging services providers use different strategies to reach different people in different settings

Here are some approaches aging services providers have taken to reach their staff:

• Posters (NO pictures of needles!)
• Zoom sessions with a physician who addresses common misconceptions.
• Handouts or links to, materials from CDC, vaccine manufacturers, pharmacy partners, health departments, LeadingAge toolkits and resources
• Interactive town halls with good information on safety, efficacy and reasons to be vaccinated.
• Building positive buzz with texts, robocalls, celebrations
• Testimonies from peers who have been vaccinated, side effects and why they got vaccinated.
• Stickers after first doses to encourage peers to ask questions.
• Rewards for receiving the second dose – T-shirts, PTO, compensation, social media recognition, wrist bands.

Leadership matters

Formal and informal leaders among staff, residents or in the wider community can make a difference in many ways, including:

• Role model embrace of vaccines by stepping up to be first in line.               
• Build enthusiasm and create a sense of celebration.
• Remind everyone why vaccines are important and what widespread vaccination will ultimately promise.
• Create space for open, patient, respectful conversations.             

Look for tools, tips, interviews with experts and much more at Vaccine Tips and Tools