Practice and technique of using a protective mask in older adults

• Published in: Asian journal of gerontology and geriatrics 2021-06, Vol.16 (1), p.18-21
• Main Authors: Lee, Linda Y K, Lam, Evangeline P W, Chan, Chin-Kiu, Chan, Sum-Yi, Chiu, Man-Ki, Chong, Wing-Hei, Chu, Kin-Wai, Hon, Man-Sze, Kwan, Lok-Ki, Tsang, Kit-Lam, Tsoi, Siu-Lai, Wu, Chung-Wai
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Coronaviruses; COVID-19; Epidemics; Older people
• ISSN: 1819-1576; 1819-1576
• DOI: 10.12809/ajgg-2020-395-oa

Objective. To assess the practice and technique of using a protective mask (surgical mask) in older adults. Methods: A convenience sample of 287 older adults aged >65 years were recruited between January and February 2017 when there was no respiratory epidemic. Their practice and technique of using a mask were assessed using a questionnaire and an observational checklist, respectively. Results: Older adults' practice and technique of using a mask were unsatisfactory. 30.1% and 26.9% indicated that they never wear a mask when taking care of family members with fever and respiratory infection, respectively. None could correctly perform all 12 steps in wearing and taking off a mask. 92.3%, 96.6%, and 93.7% did not perform hand hygiene before wearing and taking off the mask and after disposing of the mask, respectively. Conclusion: Compliance of older adults with wearing masks during a non-epidemic period was low. The commonly omitted steps of wearing and taking off a mask were related to hand hygiene. We recommend using the knowledge-attitude-practice model to rectify misconceptions and strengthen awareness on the use of masks in the required situations and on commonly omitted or incorrectly performed techniques.