Safeguarding Seniors Through Immunizations

Older adults are more susceptible to adverse health outcomes from diseases like Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and COVID-19 due to several factors associated with aging and its related conditions. As people age, their immune system gradually weakens, making it harder to fight off infections. Many older adults also have chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or chronic lung disease, which can compromise the body’s ability to recover from infections.

Additionally, lung capacity and function can decline with age, making respiratory viruses more dangerous and increasing the risk of complications such as pneumonia or hospitalization. Aging can also affect the body’s inflammatory response, leading to excessive or prolonged inflammation that can damage tissues and organs when fighting infections.

These factors underscore the importance of preventive measures, such as vaccination, regular health checkups, and appropriate management of chronic conditions, to help reduce the risk of severe outcomes from respiratory and other infections in older adults.

Older adults should consider several vaccines to help prevent illnesses, especially because the immune system can weaken with age. Here are some commonly recommended vaccines for older adults:

Influenza (flu) vaccine: An annual flu vaccine is recommended to help prevent seasonal influenza, which can be severe in older adults. The current trivalent flu vaccine is recommended for everyone six months and older. Adults over age 65 may be eligible for a higher-dose flu vaccination. Ask your health care provider if it is right for you.

Pneumococcal vaccines: These vaccines protect against pneumococcal diseases, including pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections. There are two types: PCV13 and PPSV23. The specific recommendations can vary based on age and health conditions.

Shingles vaccine: The recombinant shingles vaccine (Shingrix) is recommended for adults 50 years and older to prevent shingles and its complications. It’s given in two doses. Getting the shingles vaccine is also important to prevent cognitive decline. Researchers from Harvard found that an episode of shingles is associated with a 20% increase in the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.

Tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis (Td/Tdap): A Td booster is recommended every 10 years. Adults who have not received a Tdap vaccine, which also protects against pertussis (whooping cough), should get one as a booster.

COVID-19 vaccine and boosters: Ongoing protection against COVID-19 is still important. In late August the Food and Drug Administration approved an updated booster that more closely targets the variant currently circulating. Recommendations for primary series and booster doses can vary based on prior vaccinations, age, and health conditions.
Unfortunately, survey data from the Annenberg Public Policy Center says that misinformation about COVID is increasing. So do your part to share factual information about the safety and efficacy of immunization against COVID-19 with your loved ones and community members.

Respiratory syncytial virus: RSV is typically a common virus causing mild, cold-like symptoms, but it presents a higher risk to older adults, potentially leading to severe symptoms. This virus can be especially dangerous for those with chronic diseases or weakened immune systems. In severe cases, older adults may require hospitalization, and the infection could be life-threatening.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises that adults aged 60 and older consult their health care providers about the RSV vaccine. Like influenza, RSV is most prevalent during the fall and winter, making it advisable to get vaccinated before the season begins. However, receiving the RSV vaccine is beneficial at any time of the year.

Other Vaccines: Depending on health status, travel plans, and other factors, other vaccines such as Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, and others might be recommended.

It’s always best to consult with a health care provider to get personalized vaccine recommendations based on individual health needs and medical history.