What question did this study set out to answer?

This research aims to explore the relationship between functional health literacy, digital exclusion, and COVID-19 vaccination rates among older adults.

February 14, 2026Open Access

Digital exclusion, functional health literacy, and COVID-19 vaccination in later life: Evidence from 30,801 older adults across Europe

Key Points

This research aims to explore the relationship between functional health literacy, digital exclusion, and COVID-19 vaccination rates among older adults.
Analyzed data from 30,801 older adults across Europe
Assessed levels of functional health literacy and internet usage
Examined vaccination uptake rates concerning these factors
Lower functional health literacy corresponds to reduced COVID-19 vaccination uptake
Internet non-users demonstrate a more significant drop in vaccination rates
Public health interventions are recommended to improve health literacy and digital access

Abstract

Lower functional HL is associated with decreased COVID-19 vaccination uptake among older adults, particularly among those who do not use the internet. Public health interventions should address both HL and digital access to reduce inequalities in vaccination uptake among older populations.

Digital exclusion, functional health literacy, and COVID-19 vaccination in later life: Evidence from 30,801 older adults across Europe

Key Points

Abstract

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