Senior Immunization and Disease Prevention

Immunizations should not be exclusively for adolescents, as it is especially important for elderly individuals to receive immunizations.
 

Immunizations can be administered through a medical professional, such as your primary doctor. It is important to speak with your doctor regarding immunizations, as some adults with health conditions may not be able to receive vaccinations.

What Vaccines Should Seniors Get to Fight Against Common Illnesses?

 
It is imperative to know which vaccinations you and your elderly loved one should get on a yearly cadence. While you can speak with your doctor regarding vaccinations for your specific condition and case, there are common immunizations that we encourage seniors to seek out each year. The influenza (flu) vaccine is important for all adults to receive each year, as it will help fight off the possibility of getting the flu during peak season. However, seniors especially should get this immunization due to having a lower defense system in their immune system.

It is also important that adults get the Tdap vaccine if they did not receive this vaccine as a child. This vaccine will prevent against pertussis, also known as whooping cough.

This will help your elderly loved one fight against whooping cough, as it can be a brutal disease for elderly individuals to fight off.

In addition, shingles vaccinations are recommended for healthy adults that are over the age of 50. This vaccination can help your elderly loved one fight against shingles and the complications that this disease can bring if they come in contact with it. Additionally, pneumococcal disease vaccinations are recommended to fight against infections in the lungs or bloodstream. It is important to speak with your doctor regarding the risks of these vaccinations and if you are eligible for them.

Why Are Seniors More at Risk for Falling Ill?

 
Over the course of our lives and as we age, our immune system will weaken, making us more susceptible to illness and disease. The natural aging of one’s immune system is called immunosenescence. As time goes on and you are exposed to more germs and bacteria on a daily basis, your immune system cannot fight them off quite as well as they used to. Immunizations and vaccinations can help your body fight against these germs and bacteria, avoiding illness and disease.

How Can a Caregiver Help with Your Immunizations?

 
While a caregiver is useful for daily tasks such as light housekeeping, meal preparation and companionship, a caregiver can also be very beneficial when you or your loved one needs immunizations. A caregiver, most importantly, can accompany you to your doctors appointments and will be informed on which immunizations you or your loved one needs. They can then arrange for you to receive your immunizations at the proper time and facility, by making the necessary appointments. Additionally, your caregiver can accompany you to your appointment to get the immunizations, so that you do not have to go through this experience alone.
Your caregiver will then be available to communicate your immunization schedule, follow up plan and needs to your family and medical professionals. Having a caregiver with you during this time will allow you to feel comfortable with the process and have a companion during your appointment. Our caregivers are highly skilled and trained to be there for you and your loved ones during this time.