A regression discontinuity analysis of the social distancing recommendations for older adults in Sweden during COVID-19.

ABSTRACT:

Background

This article investigates the impact of a non-mandatory and age-specific social distancing recommendation on isolation behaviours and disease outcomes in Sweden during the first wave of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic (March to July 2020). The policy stated that people aged 70 years or older should avoid crowded places and contact with people outside the household.

Methods

We used a regression discontinuity design-in combination with self-reported isolation data from COVID Symptom Study Sweden (n = 96 053; age range: 39-79 years) and national register data (age range: 39-100+ years) on severe COVID-19 disease (hospitalization or death, n = 21 804) and confirmed cases (n = 48 984)-to estimate the effects of the policy.

Results

Our primary an

SUBMITTER: Bonander C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9384721 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature