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.
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.
