The Risk Factors of COVID-19 Infection and Mortality among Older Adults in South Korea

Abstract

Background: This study aimed to identify the risk factors associated with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection and mortality among older adults in South Korea. Methods: Using Korean National Health Insurance data from January 1, 2020, to March 31, 2022, we analyzed the impact of various factors, including age, comorbidity burden, and insurance type, on COVID-19 infection and mortality rates. Results: Age was the most significant risk factor for mortality in older adults. A higher comorbidity burden was also associated with increased infection (odds ratio [OR]=1.33 for Charlson Comorbidity Index [CCI] ≥2, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.321–1.339) and mortality (OR=1.537 for CCI ≥2, 95% CI 1.459–1.618) rates. While Medical Aid recipients exhibited lower infection rates (OR=0.898, 95% CI 0.89–0.906) than National Health Insurance beneficiaries, they had higher mortality rates (OR=1.692, 95% CI 1.623–1.763). Con-clusion: These results emphasized the need to prioritize vaccination and allocate healthcare re-sources for older adults, particularly those with multiple comorbidities. Addressing socioeconomic disparities and ensuring equitable access to testing and healthcare services are crucial for miti-gating the impact of COVID-19 on older adults.