Project Details
In one senior housing facility, this study pilot-tested a survey instrument in English and Spanish with 54 residents. The respondents, as closely as possible, reflected the age, ethnic, gender and ability composition of the building. Project staff also recruited residents to participate in the peer education trainings and Motivational Interviewing components of the study. Four residents completed the flu education training to become peer health educators, forming the V.I.P. Committee that advocated vaccination and health maintenance to other residents. The VNA, in collaboration with the NCAAA, conducted 3 influenza vaccine clinics in the building, which served approximately 25% of the building community bringing vaccination levels in the building up to approximately 50%. With the assistance of project staff, the V.I.P. Committee organized a “flu fair,” which more than 50 residents and staff attended. This event included a flu vaccine clinic, theme-related games, an information table, and a luncheon. At a study debriefing immediately following the fair, V.I.P. Committee members and other residents expressed their enthusiasm to discuss further plans and opportunities for health education and advocacy. The project resulted in a curriculum that was tested in a CDC funded efficacy study.

Project Results

Residents on the V.I.P. Committee and project staff worked together to coordinate a flu vaccine promotion campaign. ICR interviewers completed surveys with 54 residents on their knowledge, attitudes and beliefs about influenza and influenza vaccination, and their previous vaccination practices. The committee also worked with staff to organize three flu clinics. Conducted by the VNA, the clinics vaccinated 39 residents (approx. 25% of the total building population). This brought the estimated total of vaccinated residents to approximately 50%. Even with these clinics, residents were under-vaccinated but survey results showed resident interest in vaccination in the future.