Digital Immunization Tracking in Long-Term Care and Assisted Living Facilities

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Public Health
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Older adults, especially those in long-term care (LTC), experienced severe COVID-19 health impacts.
• Vaccination is crucial for protecting this demographic, but significant gaps in adult vaccine uptake persist.
• Proactive strategies are needed to prevent future health crises in assisted and independent living facilities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore technological solutions for improving adult vaccination rates in older adults residing in LTC and assisted living facilities.
• To identify methods for proactively protecting residents from vaccine-preventable illnesses.
• To address existing vaccination coverage gaps in this vulnerable population.

Main Methods:

• A digital immunization solution was piloted in Fredericton, New Brunswick.
• The study focused on assisted and independent living facilities.
• The approach aimed to facilitate vaccine uptake and identify coverage gaps.

Main Results:

• The digital immunization solution showed potential for increasing adult vaccine uptake among older adults.
• The technology can assist in identifying and addressing vaccination coverage gaps.
• This facilitates targeted interventions to protect residents.

Conclusions:

• Digital immunization solutions can enhance vaccine uptake in older adults in assisted and independent living settings.
• Technology can empower policymakers to develop effective interventions for vulnerable populations.
• Proactive vaccination strategies are essential for preventing future health disasters in LTC facilities.