COVID-19 Perceptions of Individuals Aged 65 and Over Under Quarantine According to the Health Belief Model: A Qualitative Case Study

Objectives: The study was conducted to profoundly examine the COVID-19 perceptions of individuals over 65 years during the lockdown using the Health Belief Model. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted using the case study design, one of the qualitative research methods. A study group was formed by selecting participants who met specific criteria, with a focus on maximum diversity. The sample consisted of 13 elderly individuals, including eight men and five women, with an average age of 69. Most of the participants had lived in rural areas (n=7) and three had contracted COVID-19. Additionally, the most common chronic diseases among the participants were hypertension (n=8) and diabetes (n=7). During the interviews with the participants, a semi-structured interview form consisting of 12 questions was used to ensure content and conceptual coherence. The data collection process was conducted through face-to-face interviews in the participants' own homes, where they felt most comfortable. Results: They more often expressed the COVID-19 perceived susceptibility as virulent disease, getting the disease, contaminating the disease, and death. In perceived severity, they stated that they would get the disease and die. Staying at home and following hygiene rules during quarantine were considered beneficial by most participants. However, some participants stated that quarantine caused stress, loneliness, inactivity and harmful effects. They mainly associated perceived barriers with prevention of basic and healthcare needs and defined self-efficacy as being patient, successful, and obeying the rules. Conclusion: The factors influencing older people's COVID-19 perceptions during the quarantine process are believed to have been identified by the Health Belief Model and these factors are important for the development of preventive health behaviours.