Age Stereotypes and Perceived Control of Health Predict COVID-19 Health- and Economy-Focused Beliefs

ABSTRACT In March 2020, many U.S. states issued stay-at-home orders to reduce COVID-19 infections and deaths. In early messaging from governments and public health officials, older adults were often portrayed as vulnerable and frail, perpetuating negative age stereotypes. Thus, views of older adults were intertwined in discussions of whether to prioritize the economy versus public health. Among a community sample, greater endorsement of positive age stereotypes and a Democrat identity significantly predicted COVID-19 health-focused beliefs (reducing infections), whereas, younger age, greater perceived health control, and a Republican identity significantly predicted COVID-19 economy-focused beliefs (reopening economy). Implications and future directions are discussed.