Fragile Publics and Risk Communication in the COVID-19 Pandemic in Turkey: A Communication-Focused Analysis on Risk Perceptions of the 65 Years and Over Risk Group

Within the scope of the project, it is aimed to analyze the risk perceptions of individuals aged 65 and over in Turkey as fragile publics in the COVID-19 pandemic and the factors that shape these perceptions, especially considering the role of communication processes. Project findings revealed that individuals aged 65 and over have a high level of knowledge about the COVID-19 pandemic. The main source of information regarding the COVID-19 pandemic is mainly television. Newspapers, radio and various social media platforms as well as interpersonal communication channels are among the information sources. All these communication sources and risk communication processes are the basic elements that shape the risk perception. The experiences of individuals aged 65 and over during the pandemic process vary, regardless of biological or chronological age. The volume of cultural and economic capital possesses differentiates the COVID-19 pandemic experiences, vulnerability experiences and capacity to cope with vulnerability, and family and close circle support strengthens the capacity to cope with vulnerability. Risk communication processes should be structured without neglecting the differences between individuals aged 65 and over, taking into account the unique demands and needs, and taking into account the communication moments that shape the risk perception. In risk communication plans for individuals aged 65 and over, detailed research should be conducted on the tendencies, lifestyles and needs of individuals, and primary and secondary target audiences should be separated from each other, differentiated communication needs should be determined, communication strategies based on research data should be developed to reach the determined target audiences, and communication messages suitable for the strategy. should be structured, and it should be ensured that the structured messages take place in the right channels in terms of target groups. Considering that risk communication is a dynamic process, regulation and inspection should be carried out at specified intervals. While creating communication, message and media strategies, the participation of the public in the communicative processes should be ensured.