Constructing trust in health information: older adults’ information behaviours during the COVID-19 pandemic
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47989/ir31ISIC65239Keywords:
Trust, information overload, older adults, crisis communication, information behaviourAbstract
Introduction. Using the COVID-19 pandemic as a case study, this article explores how older adults in Québec, Canada, navigated information overload in the context of their everyday information behaviours. Trust was considered a central concept, influencing how individuals select, interpret, and ultimately apply information in their lives.
Method. The project was conducted in partnership with the Conference of Regional Roundtables for Older Adults in Québec. An exploratory qualitative design was employed, involving 24 individual interviews with older adults.
Analysis. All interviews were transcribed, and a thematic content analysis was carried out using NVivo Pro software.
Results. The findings reveal that older adults engaged with information during the COVID-19 pandemic through active evaluation, and critical reflection. Rather than passively receiving official messages, participants carefully assessed information, exhibiting thoughtful and discerning behaviours. Trust operated as both a cognitive and relational mechanism, shaping how they sought, evaluated, and applied information in contexts of uncertainty and overload.
Conclusions. Older adults are active information consumers, critically evaluating sources and content to support their health and well-being. These findings highlight the need for public authorities to communicate transparently, avoid sensationalism, and implement feedback mechanisms, such as forums or interactive sessions, to strengthen trust and address public concerns.
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