DC Grandparents Against COVID-19

In 2022, HelpAge USA launched DC Grandparents Against COVID-19, a movement by DC residents 60+ years of age united in encouraging loved ones of all ages to get vaccinated and boosted against COVID-19.

Activities and Impact

With support from AARP and the DC Department of Aging and Community Living, HelpAge USA provided 24 educational sessions to members, with a diverse range of live speakers who gave presentations and engaged in Q&A and mock conversations.

Of the 500 older people who signed onto the movement, 96% were African American. An independent evaluation found that DC Grandparents Against COVID-19 demonstrated the power and impact of a movement led by older adults to reduce COVID-19 disparities.

"The movement was successful in increasing participant’s knowledge and awareness of COVID-19, COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters, overall communication skills, and ability to encourage family, friends and neighbors. The findings highlight the utility of community-led strategies to improve health literacy and build demand for COVID-19 vaccines."

Conclusion from an independent evaluation firm

"Grandparents Against COVID-19 allows us to be a resource, to not be put on the shelf to the side but to be an active participant in our defense against COVID-19."

“I went to the March on Washington with my parents and my grandparents, and I saw people locking arms… that’s what I think of us locking arms and nobody can get through us.”

“I feel more confident in approaching people. I can counteract statements with facts. I can talk to people nicely.”

“It makes me feel like I want to keep fighting and sharing the information about getting vaccinated and boosted.”

“I am more informed and better equipped to speak with my family and loved ones regarding COVID-19, the vaccine, the importance of boosters … I am more at ease about those discussions and giving me ways to speak to people.”

“Prior to joining DC Grandparents Against COVID-19, I forgot about the second booster. And was a bit hesitant. Once I joined the group, I started sharing what I learned with everyone.”

Our Leadership

DC Grandparents Against COVID-19 was led by a leadership circle of grandparents. Grandparents Against COVID-19 is a program of HelpAge USA in partnership with the DC Department of Aging and Community Living and AARP DC.