Resources Archives - Safe Harbor Healthcare Services

Staying Cool As Heat Rises

bbworks — Fri, 05 Jun 2026 14:06:21 +0000

It isn’t summer yet, but 2026 has experienced many record-breaking days of heat already. Staying cool in the summer is essential at any age. But for elders, it can be even more vital. Older adults tend not to feel as hot as younger people, even as the heat is taking its toll. This article will cover some important tips to keep cool as the summer months begin.

Staying Cool and Hydrated

Hydration is an essential part of staying cool. Water in the body helps regulate internal temperature and allows you to sweat. Sweating is a natural process that helps your body cool down. Over time, the thirst receptors in your body tend to dull. For many older adults, this means that they aren’t drinking as much water as they need to. Some medications may also affect hydration levels or feelings of thirst. Generally, it is recommended to drink 8 cups of water a day. But increased heat and sweating may require you to drink more. Help your loved one work towards drinking more water to help them stay hydrated.

Fans and Air Conditioners

Keeping your loved one’s home cool with an air conditioner is important in the heat of the summer. Fans can be helpful as well, but tend to stop being effective after the temperature inside the home reaches 90 degrees or more.

Visit Your Local Library

Running the AC all day can get expensive. Consider saving money by helping your loved one visit their local library. Libraries are a great place to get cool and read some books. Libraries often have activities, laptops for general use, and other amenities for seniors. Some will even run events on certain days to bring older adults together. This can help minimize feelings of isolation.

Staying Cool Outside

If your loved one has to venture out, help them be prepared for the heat. Wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses can protect their head and keep them cooler. Brighter colors reflect more light and tend to reduce heat compared to darker shades. Encourage them to wear light or bright colors. Avoid spending too much time in the sun. Seek shade whenever possible. Encourage them to use sunscreen when venturing outside, even on cloudy days. SPF 30 or more is generally recommended. Taking a swim in a pool can also be a great way to cool off.

Cool Showers or Baths

A cool shower or bath can help reduce your internal temperature and keep you cooler. When setting up for a bath, shower first, so you can soak cleanly. A book or some music with their bath can help encourage them to relax for longer without having to leave the cool water. Add warm or cold water to the bath as needed to maintain a comfortable temperature.

Safe Harbor Healthcare Services does not provide medical, healthcare, or financial advice via articles. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only. It is not intended to provide and should not be relied on for advice.
Safe Harbor Healthcare Services has provided excellent home care on Staten Island since 1967. Our services help older and disabled individuals live safely and independently while giving their families the peace of mind they need. For more information, contact us or call (718)-979-6900.

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Skin Cancer Safety Awareness

bbworks — Fri, 15 May 2026 13:58:43 +0000

May is Skin Cancer and Melanoma Awareness Month. As the weather warms up and we get closer to summer, ensuring that your older loved one protects their skin is vital. This article will explore important tips to protect older adults from skin cancer, as well as information on skin cancer screenings.

Skin Cancer and Sunscreen

Sunscreen is an essential part of protecting yourself against skin cancer. UV radiation can affect you even on cloudy or cold days. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen that is 30 SPF or more. Use sunscreen on all exposed areas, including your neck, face, ears, arms, and legs. Reapply sunscreen as directed on the product. If participating in water activities, be sure to use a waterproof product.

Sun-Protective Clothing

UV rays can penetrate through clothes. Consider looking for Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) clothes. These clothes usually have denser weaves or synthetic fabrics that help improve UPF ratings. Clothes with darker or brighter colors also have a higher UPF rating than whiter clothes. Most regular summer clothes provide a UPF protection rating of 5-15. Sun-protective clothes are usually rated at 30 or more. Hats are also an important protective tool against the sun. Wide-brimmed hats can help protect your face and ears.

Avoid Peak Sun Hours

When possible, avoid spending time outside during peak sun hours. UV radiation is generally highest between 11 AM and 2 PM. If you have to be outside, seek shade when possible.

Sunbathing and Skin Cancer

Sunbathing and tanning beds are major contributors to skin cancer. Regular indoor tanning can increase your melanoma risk by up to 75%. While tanning happens as you are naturally out in the sun, there is no such thing as a “healthy” tan. If spending time outside, sit in the shade whenever possible.

Skin Checks at Home

Checking for changes in your skin is an important first step in protecting yourself from skin cancer. Self-examine your skin, or have a caregiver assist you. If you notice something that may be a problem, schedule an appointment with your dermatologist. Early signs to look for can include:

New moles
Moles that are changing shape or color over time
Lesions
Spots with irregular edges
Spots with varied colors

Skin Cancer Screenings with Your Dermatologist

Older adults should generally schedule annual dermatology appointments for skin checks. Depending on family history or previous diagnoses, your dermatologist may recommend more frequent check-ups. For all forms of skin cancer, early detection can dramatically improve health outcomes.

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Stroke Prevention Tips

bbworks — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 14:29:41 +0000

Suffering from a stroke can be fatal for many older adults. And for those who do survive one, recovery can be a long, challenging journey. Thankfully, there are ways to reduce your risk of suffering from strokes. This article will explore stroke prevention tips for older adults.

Stroke Prevention Tips

Managing your health and well-being is important in reducing your risk of strokes or other health complications. Below, we will discuss several avenues for improving your daily care to reduce your risk factors.

Managing Blood Pressure and Cholesterol

High blood pressure and cholesterol are major contributing factors to your risk of heart disease, heart attacks, or strokes. Your physician can help you determine if your blood pressure and cholesterol levels are in safe ranges. They can also help guide you in managing these levels.

Regular Exercise and Stroke Risk

Older adults who exercise regularly are less likely to suffer a stroke. As you age, changes in your mobility and energy levels may make it harder to be more active. Even simple exercises like walking around the block or chair yoga can make a big difference in your health. Talk to your doctor about potential exercise plans to start with.

Dietary Changes for A Healthier Lifestyle

Managing your diet is a vital part of longevity in older adults. For those at risk of a stroke, reducing the cholesterol and fat in your diet can be essential. Reducing the amount of salt you use can also help with blood pressure management. Your diet should be rich in fruits and vegetables. Consider talking to your doctor or a nutritionist to develop a smart diet plan to meet your health goals.

Be mindful that some medications may recommend avoiding certain foods, and discussing these restrictions with your doctor can be important. Examples of this can include avoiding grapefruits with some blood pressure medications, or some leafy greens while on certain blood thinners.

Managing Your Co-Morbidities

Your other health conditions may be contributing to your stroke risk. Examples of co-morbidities can include diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, depression, arthritis, or cancer. Managing your health and symptoms of your co-morbidities can help lessen your stroke risk factors.

Quit Smoking

Smoking is a major risk factor for strokes. Quitting can be a challenge, especially for lifelong smokers. Talk to your doctor about potential avenues for quitting.

In-Home Care and Stroke Prevention

In-home care providers can help you manage your stroke risk factors. Certified Home Health Aides from SafeHarbor provide care through meal preparation, medication reminders, assisting with exercise plans, and more.

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Identifying Substance Abuse in Elders

bbworks — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 15:51:08 +0000

Substance abuse is a problem that plagues many families across America. For senior citizens, it can be especially difficult to identify and combat. Elders may turn to abusing drugs or alcohol for several reasons. Unfortunately, many of the signs of substance abuse can also be a common factor of aging. This article will explore common substances abused by elderly individuals. Then, this article will discuss common signs of substance abuse and how to better approach your loved one’s problem.

Common Substances that are Abused

Alcohol

Alcohol abuse can be rampant at any age, but it can be especially deadly for elderly individuals. Because many people start drinking at an early age, alcohol abuse can come from repeatedly pushing past an established tolerance. Alcohol dependence can grow over time. Those who drank socially throughout their adulthood are more susceptible to developing alcohol dependency as seniors.

Opioids

Opioid addiction and abuse are becoming increasingly widespread in America. While much of the country’s focus is on younger age groups, it is very prevalent in older adults. Opioids are powerful painkillers, often prescribed after serious surgeries or procedures. Addiction often stems from being prescribed opioid drugs, and then seeking more from there. Oxycodone, Percocet, Fentanyl, Hydrocodone, and Morphine are all commonly prescribed opioids. If your loved one is prescribed an opioid, they must understand the addiction risk. If your loved one is prone to addiction, consider working with their doctor to find alternative prescription options first.

Anti-Anxiety Medications

Anti-anxiety medication abuse often comes from overuse and/or reliance on prescription anti-anxiety pills. Ativan, Klonopin, Valium, and Xanax are the most common forms of anti-anxiety medications. These pills can usually be prescribed by a primary care physician or a mental health professional.

Common Signs of Substance Abuse

There are many signs of substance abuse. However, many of these signs can also be factors of old age, or even side effects of medication. Because of this, substance abuse can be difficult to identify in older adults. Talk to your loved one’s physician if you believe there may be a substance abuse issue.

“Misplacing” Prescriptions

Prescription drug abuse is often fueled by patients “losing” their prescriptions. If your loved one seems to be losing their medications and having to pick up more, there may be cause for concern. Also, if they seem to be running out of their medications too soon, it could be a sign of abuse.

Mood Changes

Drastic changes in mood and overall demeanor can be a sign of substance abuse. If your loved one’s mood is very different from how they usually act, they may be abusing drugs or alcohol.

Sleeping More and Nodding Off

Those dealing with substance abuse will usually sleep drastically more than before their abuse began. As such, it can be a common sign of alcohol or drug dependence. Additionally, it is common for substance abusers to nod off in the middle of conversations or activities. Major changes in sleep patterns can come from any type of drug. Stimulants can make it harder for your loved one to maintain a regular sleep schedule.

Confusion and Memory Loss

While memory loss and confusion can be signs of mental illness or deterioration, they can also be common signs of substance abuse. Your loved one’s physician should be referred to regarding cases of memory loss and confusion. They will be more equipped to identify whether or not this is due to a mental issue or if substances are involved.

Wanting or Preferring Isolation

Many elderly individuals suffer from feeling lonely or isolated. Preferring to be left alone or withdrawing from social situations can be a sign of substance abuse. It is important not to mistake wanting independence for wanting to be isolated. Many elderly individuals can feel like their independence is threatened as they require more assistance with age. Sudden changes in their attitude toward being left alone may be an indication of a change in health or substance use.

Lying About Small Matters

Lying is common in those trying to hide the addiction. This may involve creating false stories or lying about seemingly innocent events. If your loved one is more often lying about small things, there may be something bigger at hand.

Major Changes in Appearance and Upkeep

It is common for elderly individuals to spend less time keeping up their appearance or hygiene. However, for those suffering from substance addiction, these changes can be drastic and sudden. If your loved one looks unkempt, smells poorly, or is otherwise not caring for themselves, you may want to pay attention to their consumption habits.

Smelling like Alcohol

Smelling of alcohol or having alcohol on their breath is a common sign of alcohol use. It is important to note the difference between light or social drinking versus alcohol dependence. Those with alcohol dependency may also drink or suggest drinking at inappropriate times for the situation. Smelling of alcohol often, or at inappropriate times, might be a sign of abuse.

Helping Your Loved One with Their Substance Abuse Issue

If you believe your loved one has a substance abuse issue, discuss with their physician and your family possible ways to handle the situation. There are many resources available to families that want to help their loved ones overcome addiction and chemical dependency. Consider discussing the issue with the individual. They may be willing to work with you to stop their substance abuse.

Substance Abuse vs Prescription Side Effects

Some signs of substance abuse, such as mood swings or changes in sleep patterns, may be the result of prescription medications. If you are noticing changes in your loved one’s behavior, consider looking into the side effects of their medications, especially those prescribed more recently. Additionally, some prescription medications can react differently when taken together. Consider consulting your loved one’s doctor if you are noticing major changes in your loved one’s demeanor or condition following a change in medication.

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Distracted Driving Awareness Month – Tips for Seniors

bbworks — Thu, 09 Apr 2026 15:43:02 +0000

April is Distracted Driver Awareness Month. Limiting practices that take your eyes off the road is important to safer driving. For older drivers, this can be especially important. With age, reaction times can get longer, and in an emergency, every second counts. This article will provide tips for minimizing distracted driving for older adults.

Medication Reminders While Driving

Reminders or phone alarms to take your pills can be incredibly helpful for your daily medications. When driving, however, they can cause distractions. When setting reminders, consider enabling voice commands to stop alarms. This prevents you from looking away from the road to turn off the alarm. When you are safely able to do so, pull over and take your pills. If you are driving on the highway, pull off at a local exit or a gas station stop and park. Not only will this reduce distracted driving, but it can also reduce the risk of you taking the wrong pills at the wrong time.

Smart Eating While Driving

Food can be a major distraction while driving. But if you have to eat, pick the right foods. Foods that are easy to hold with one hand and aren’t messy can be the best choice. Drinks in containers that have straws or spouts can minimize distraction time and keep your hands on the wheel.

Plan Your Route Before You Drive

Set your GPS before driving. If you are planning on driving without a GPS, think about your route in advance and plan it out. Be mindful of your route as you go.

Hands-Free Doesn’t Mean You Aren’t Distracted

While many cars have hands-free phone controls or buttons on your wheel, it doesn’t mean you are safe from distraction. Your car’s screen, stereo system, or environmental control systems can all cause distractions. Be mindful of how you interact with these systems, and do your best to keep your focus on the road. If you have a passenger in your vehicle, consider asking them to make changes as needed.

Pulling Over is Safer Than Distracted Driving

It can be better to pull over than to drive distracted. If you need to pull over, do so safely. Put your car in park before proceeding with a text, call, or other important task that requires you to stop driving.

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Eye Care Screenings for Older Adults

bbworks — Thu, 26 Mar 2026 15:17:36 +0000

As you age, your senses can worsen. Your eyes are no exception. Over the years, your vision will likely get worse. It can be helpful to schedule regular eye exams for your glasses prescription if you need them. But regular screenings for potential eye conditions are also important. Below, we will discuss some age-related eye conditions that screening exams could catch.

What do Eye Care Screenings Look For?

Generally, eye care screenings look for signs of degeneration or vision loss. This can include a variety of different ocular conditions. The most common conditions an eye exam will screen for include:

Cataracts
Macular Degeneration
Diabetic Retinopathy
Glaucoma

Cataracts

Cataracts are an eye condition that is commonly related to aging. A cataract is the clouding of the eye’s lens. The cloudiness can cause vision loss, blurriness, dimmed vision, faded coloration in vision, or lighting glare. It is similar to having a smudge on a camera lens. Surgical intervention is highly effective in clearing up cataracts.

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

AMD is a degenerative condition that affects the retina. This causes central vision to worsen. It is most often found in individuals aged 60 and older. AMD causes objects in the center of your view to appear blurry, dark, or wavy. Treatment can vary depending on the type and severity of the degeneration. But there is currently no cure for AMD.

Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetics may experience diabetic retinopathy in their eyes. This is a condition where the blood vessels in the eyes are damaged. It can cause severe vision loss if it goes untreated. Early detection through screenings is vital to ensure intervention.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a type of eye disease, primarily classified by the damage caused to the optic nerve. Usually, this damage is the result of high fluid pressure in and around the eye. In the early stages, glaucoma can be asymptomatic. But as the condition worsens, partial or total blindness can occur. Early detection through screenings is vital to treating and counteracting glaucoma. Early stages can be fought with eye drops. Laser treatments or minimally invasive surgery are likely needed for further stages.

How Frequently Do You Need Eye Screenings?

Generally, you should have an eye screening every one to two years. Your eye doctor may recommend more frequent eye exams as needed. A family history of eye conditions, other pre-existing conditions (like diabetes), or other factors may warrant more frequent screenings.

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Care Support for Elders After a TBI

bbworks — Wed, 18 Mar 2026 18:19:04 +0000

After your older loved one suffers from a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), the level of in-home care they need may increase drastically. For those over 65, care and recovery from a TBI can be intense. The injury may have also impacted their ability to care for themselves. This article will discuss care assistance for elders living with a TBI.

What is a TBI?

A Traumatic Brain Injury is a sustained injury to the head that affects the brain. An estimated 2.5 million Americans sustain a TBI each year, from a variety of causes. For older adults, major falls or car accidents are the most common causes of TBIs. A brain injury can often be life-changing for those affected. When coupled with other injuries from a fall or car accident, it can be even harder for your loved one to care for themselves.

Long-Term Symptoms of a TBI

Generally, medical care after a major fall or a car crash will address or look for signs of a TBI. But the injury can also lead to long-term symptoms that could affect your loved one for the rest of their life. TBIs can cause a variety of different emotional, physical, and behavioral changes. Symptoms can even last long after the injury occurs. These symptoms can vary depending on the nature and severity of the injury. Long-term symptoms may include:

Slurred speech
Balance issues
Changes in overall demeanor or mood
Mood swings
Memory loss
Concentration issues
Shortened attention span
Difficulty reading or writing
Difficulty sleeping
States of disorientation
Depression
Anxiety
Coordination loss

Medical Care for a TBI

For older adults, care support for a TBI will generally include physical and neurological rehabilitation. They may also need occupational or speech-language therapy for recovery. Full physical and cognitive recovery may not be necessary.

In-Home Care Support for Those with Traumatic Brain Injuries

After a traumatic brain injury, your loved one may have a harder time caring for themselves safely. If their TBI was paired with other physical injuries, their mobility can be even further reduced. As a result, they may need comprehensive in-home care. A home health aide from SafeHarbor can help your loved one with their daily care and help ensure that their needs are met. This can include meal preparation, transport to therapy appointments, hygiene care, and more.

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Discussing Cancer Diagnoses with Children

bbworks — Fri, 23 Jan 2026 16:52:06 +0000

When a loved one is diagnosed with cancer, it can be hard for the whole family to process. But if you have young children, you may have to approach the news differently. The concept of cancer can be scary to young children, especially when an older loved one has become so sick, suddenly. It is important to explain it in a manner that is easier to understand for them. This article will focus on discussing with your children about a loved one’s cancer diagnosis and what to expect during treatment.

Your Emotional Preparedness

It is important to prepare yourself before the discussion with your children. Choose a time when you are feeling calmer and more emotionally stable to discuss it. You will want to be more controlled in how you approach the conversation. It may help to have another adult your children trust with you. This could be a spouse, a grandparent, or another family member. If needed, write down what you want to say. This can help you stay on track with the discussion.

Children and Intuition Regarding Cancer

Your children may intuit that you are upset as you talk about the diagnosis. It is completely ok to show emotion and explain why you feel that way. They may get anxious, stressed, or scared. Children are also often more understanding of situations than we may expect. Your child may already know something about cancer or have some concept of it already. They will likely have questions and concerns, so be ready to answer questions that you deem appropriate.

Speaking Honestly

It is best to be honest with your children about topics like cancer. Children can become confused or afraid if they feel that you are withholding information. They may also overhear other conversations in the family. So it is often best to be upfront and forthcoming. Encourage them to ask questions, and don’t be afraid to speak honestly or not know all the answers. Being straightforward and honest about the situation can be a good idea. But try to be optimistic where possible.

Speaking on Your Child’s Level

Children should be informed about how this can affect them and their lives. They may not understand all of the terms or explanations. Try your best to use language they will understand. This can be important when discussing the type of cancer your loved one is living with or the treatments they may experience. For different age groups, different discussions may be needed. Teens may have different concerns than younger children. And a 10-year-old will likely require more detail than a 5-year-old. In a mixed-age home, older kids may help support younger children through the tough conversations.

Some kids may not be able to fully understand. Some may be more inquisitive and want more info. You know your children and how they may approach the topic. Be ready to answer questions, and don’t be afraid to not know all the answers. In some cases, you may want to do some research with your child to learn more together. There are many resources available for different age levels to understand cancer. Consider seeking out books that can help.

Treatment and Expectations

Generally, initial diagnoses can lay out expectations for treatment and expected results. Depending on how much information your loved one gave you, you may need to prepare your children for different outcomes. From terminal diagnoses to the effects of chemo and radiation therapy, it is important to prepare your children for the changes ahead. Treatments may affect how your loved one looks and feels as their treatment continues.

Common symptoms of treatment can include hair loss, fatigue, weight changes, and vomiting. Changes in mood, energy levels, and temperament are also common, both from treatment and from grief. Your child’s interactions with their family member can be affected by these changes. These changes can seem scary to a child. Helping your child understand ahead of time can help them better process what is happening.

Fear of Cancer

Many children may become worried that they or other loved ones may get cancer after learning about it. Firstly, ensure them that the cancer their loved one has is not contagious. Unfortunately, as cancer risks can often be genetic, it can be something to approach in the future. It can be hard to let your child understand that cancer happens to a lot of people. Cancer can be scary for them, and they may not fully comprehend how it forms in different people. Try your best to set them at ease.

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Managing IBS With Age

bbworks — Mon, 12 Jan 2026 15:46:31 +0000

Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a gastrointestinal (GI) disorder that can affect your daily life. IBS is a chronic condition that can be onset by changes in lifestyle, other medical conditions, or even medication side effects. If you have IBS, your condition can advance with age. GI issues can also become more complex with age.

Symptoms of IBS

One of the telltale symptoms of IBS is acute changes in bowel movements and urgency out of nowhere. Commonly, IBS can also include sharp abdominal pain, bloating, gas, constipation, and diarrhea. Sometimes, tenesmus, or the feeling of incomplete evacuation of the bowels, may occur.

Types of Irritable Bowel Syndrome

There are several types of Irritable Bowel Syndrome. They are generally classified by the general consistency of the bowel movement during a flare-up. IBS-D is defined by more frequent instances of diarrhea. Those with IBS-C have more constipation, followed by harder, lumpier stool. IBS-M or -A are for individuals with mixed or alternating IBS flare-ups.

IBS Symptoms and Age-Related Changes

IBS can occur at any age, but flare-ups can increase frequency in older adults. Several factors can affect the frequency of flare-ups. Hormonal changes, stress, diet, and other factors can contribute to symptom frequency. For older adults, hormonal changes and age-related depression & anxiety are common among older individuals with IBS. Lifestyle changes, such as being more sedentary, can also create further complications.
Medication side effects can also create potential issues for those with IBS. Some medications can affect your gut bacteria or lead to a higher chance of constipation or diarrhea. Always discuss medication side effects with your doctor.

Food Sensitivity and Irritable Bowel Syndrome

While food sensitivities can vary per person, some foods more commonly affect these symptoms. Dairy, glutenous foods, and gas-inducing foods can more actively affect symptoms. Older adults generally produce less Lactase, the enzyme that breaks down milk sugars. This can cause more gastrointestinal issues while consuming dairy.

Symptom Management for Older Adults

Eating right can make a difference in symptom management. Talk with your doctor regarding dietary changes that may help. Managing your overall health, both physical and mental, can make a big difference in the frequency of flare-ups. Additionally, your doctor may consider prescribing medication to help manage symptoms.

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Important Vaccines for 65+ Adults

bbworks — Mon, 05 Jan 2026 15:37:51 +0000

Vaccinations are a critical step in defending yourself and others from potentially harmful illnesses. For older individuals, vaccines can help protect against some viruses and bacterial infections that can be common causes of death for those in their age group. This article will explore 5 vaccines that can be critical for individuals 65 and older.

Why Vaccines Matter

Vaccines provide the body with weakened or inactivated versions of a virus or bacteria. This allows your body’s immune system to build up its natural defenses against that microbe. After a vaccine, if you are exposed to that illness, you are less likely to become sick, or your symptoms will be milder. Many illnesses, such as Polio, smallpox, and Rubella, have been wholly eradicated from the US because of vaccination programs. And as more countries receive support and funding for vaccinations, we move closer to eliminating these illnesses from humanity. Immunization is a key aspect of public health. And herd immunity, when the majority of people in a community receive vaccinations, helps further curb the spread of an illness. For more information on why vaccines are safe and important, visit the World Health Organization.

Vaccinations in Older Individuals

As we age, our bodies change, and many systems within become less efficient. For many older adults, the immune system can become weaker with age. Additionally, chronic conditions, such as diabetes or heart disease, can further compromise your immune system. Because of this, vaccinations can often be an important first line of defense for many older individuals.

Influenza Vaccines

The flu vaccine is an important shot that changes yearly. Because influenza has many strains, experts determine which strains to include in a vaccine each year. Generally, the strains are chosen based on which seem most prevalent that year in patient testing, as well as other potential factors. The flu can be particularly severe for older adults and is more likely to lead to additional complications than for younger individuals. In some areas, flu vaccines tailored for older adults can offer protection from additional strains are available. Generally, you should get your flu vaccine before the winter, when flu season is.

Shingles Vaccination

Shingles is a painful condition that can lead to long-term health concerns. After the age of 50, the risk of developing shingles rises. Newer recombinant vaccinations for shingles are effective at protecting you from shingles. Shingles is caused by the Varicella-Zoster Virus (VZV), which causes chickenpox in younger individuals. Shingles is caused by the dormant virus of chickenpox reactivating in the body. The shingles vaccine can be important in reducing the risk of developing shingles in adulthood. Even if you never had chickenpox as a child, you may have been exposed to VZV. So it can be an important preventative vaccination.

Pneumococcal Vaccines

This vaccination comes in 2 shots, generally administered a year apart. The pneumococcal vaccine protects against pneumonia, meningitis, and some bloodstream infections. Anyone 65 years or older should get these vaccines. If you have asthma or other chronic lung conditions, your doctor may recommend getting this vaccine sooner.

Tdap Vaccine

The Tdap vaccine covers 3 severe diseases: Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis. Doctors generally recommend a Tdap shot every 10 years. The Tdap vaccine can be especially important for older individuals who are around young children often, such as those with grandchildren. Updating your Tdap vaccination status can help protect you and your young family members from Pertussis, AKA whooping cough.

COVID-19 Vaccines and Boosters

The novel coronavirus COVID-19 and its many strains can be critically dangerous for older adults and those with existing comorbidities. In addition to initial COVID-19 vaccinations, booster shots, similar to flu shots, are recommended. These can continue to bolster your immune system against different strains of COVID-19. Coronavirus vaccinations and boosters can help reduce the risk of having severe or life-threatening COVID-19 symptoms and can reduce the risk of hospitalization.

Addressing Vaccine Concerns

Vaccine side effects are generally mild and temporary. There is a lot of misinformation around vaccinations. Every developed nation in the world follows similar vaccination recommendations and schedules. Always consult with your healthcare provider for vaccination schedule recommendations and any concerns you may have.

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