Factors Affecting the Acceptance of COVID-19 Vaccines by Older People in Qom, Iran Based on the Theory of Planned Behavior

Today, vaccination is effective in preventing COVID-19. This study aims to determine the factors affecting the acceptance of COVID-19 vaccines by older adults in Qom, Iran, based on the theory of planned behavior (TPB).

In this correlational study, 200 older people were selected from a retirement center in Qom using a random sampling method. Data collection tools included a demographic form and a TPB-based questionnaire. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and structural equation modeling in SmartPLS software.

The mean age of the participants was 62.8±5.8 years; 80.1% were male, and 49.7% had received the booster dose of vaccines. There was a significant positive relationship between intention to receive the vaccine and vaccination behavior (β=0.597, P<0.05). Also, the fear of vaccine side effects (β=-0.162, P<0.05), attitude (β=0.356, P<0.05), and perceived behavioral control (β=0.171, P< 0.05) had a significant relationship with the intention to receive the vaccine. The fitness indexes of the model showed its good fit, and the TPB-based model could predict 34% of the changes in receiving COVID-19 vaccines. 

Attitude, fear of vaccine side effects, and behavioral control are the factors affecting the acceptance of COVID-19 vaccines by the elderly in Qom City. The results can be useful in developing educational programs to increase the rate of vaccination among older people.