According to results from the National Poll on Healthy Aging from the University of Michigan, 58% of adults ages 50 to 80 said that they are somewhat likely or very likely to get vaccinated to prevent COVID-19. However, when asked about how quickly they would get a vaccine, only 20% said they wanted to get the vaccine as soon as it becomes available, while 46% said they would rather wait for others to get vaccinated first before doing it themselves.

A poll of older adults taken by the University of Michigan National Poll on Healthy Aging suggests an uphill climb ahead to get most people in the high-risk age group vaccinated against COVID-19. Image courtesy of the University of Michigan.

Generally, women, people of color, older individuals (50-64 years of age), and those with lower incomes and education levels were less likely to say they'd seek vaccination. Only 40% of older Black individuals and 51% of Hispanic individuals said they were somewhat or very likely to get vaccinated. Conversely, people over age 65, whites, men and those with higher levels of education were more likely to get vaccinated right away, or even participate in a vaccine trial.

Additionally, 80% of respondents said that they'll consider how well a vaccine works as part of making their vaccination decision. Reaching those who are unsure about getting vaccinated (14% unsure and 11% somewhat unlikely to get vaccinated) will be important for vaccine effectiveness.

Among other responses was that nearly three-quarters said they intended to vaccinate against the flu or had already done so. Almost half said it was more important to get a flu shot this year than previously. Nearly all respondents (93%) agreed it's important to prioritize giving COVID-19 vaccines to high-risk individuals.

Families weigh risks of coronavirus exposure over Thanksgiving
Parents are weighing the risks and benefits of gathering with extended family this year, amidst the global COVID-19 pandemic. Most parents are planning...

COVID-19 concerns may undermine vaccine rates for seasonal flu
Only a third of parents believe that the flu vaccine will be more important this year, and 1 in 7 parents will not vaccinate their child due to concerns...