Most people consider vaccines for children only to protect their health and their family's health. However, vaccines are crucial for patients of all ages, including those over the age of 65 in assisted living or those in larger, more populated care settings. With several vaccinations available for adults, here are the five most important, proven, and effective vaccines and immunizations for senior citizens.
Influenza (Flu) Vaccine
Although the influenza (flu) vaccine is recommended for all ages, it has a special emphasis on people aged 65 and older and those with certain medical conditions. This flu vaccination reduces the chances of getting influenza and other related viruses, such as influenza A (H1N1), two influenza B viruses, and influenza A (H3N2).
For the elderly, two influenza vaccines are ideal for creating a stronger immune response against these viruses: adjuvanted flu vaccine and high-dose flu vaccine. The intent is to protect senior citizens against nearly 100 strains of influenza, especially during the cold and flu seasons of the year in the United States.
Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis (Tdap)
Tdap is among the most recommended vaccine combinations to prevent an elderly loved one from contracting harmful bacteria. Tetanus often results from bacteria in manure, soil, or dirt and affects the nervous system. Pertussis (whooping cough) is a serious condition among the elderly and children since it involves bacteria that infects the lining of the upper respiratory system, leading to coughing.
Diphtheria is caused by bacteria that impair the respiratory system, causing difficulty breathing and swallowing. It can also infiltrate the bloodstream and damage the nerves, heart, and kidneys. The Tdap vaccine is 95 percent effective against tetanus and diphtheria and 70 percent against pertussis. If a senior loved one never received this vaccine during childhood, it is highly advisable to get it and prevent such illnesses.
Shingles Vaccine
The shingles vaccine is recommended for all people age 50 and older, even for those who have had shingles or received the vaccine previously. Unlike most vaccines, the shingles vaccine is a two-shot series, with the second shot given 2-6 months apart from the first. As a result, the elderly who receive this vaccine acquired immunity against shingles and herpes zoster, especially those who have previously caught chickenpox.
Besides, the risk of shingles increases with age and involves a painful condition resulting from dormant chickenpox viruses within a senior's nerve cells. When these viruses become active, they lead to rashes, inflammation, and irritation along the nerves in the body. Some seniors may also suffer postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) due to shingles and experience severe and debilitating pain in the rash location.
Pneumococcal Vaccine
Pneumococcal bacteria is one of the leading pneumonia-related hospitalizations in the United States annually. It is also responsible for several cases of bacterial meningitis and bacteremia, a blood infection that can lead to severe conditions. With two pneumococcal vaccinations to prevent Streptococcus pneumonia infections, persons over 65 can receive both shots and mitigate such illnesses.
Senior citizens with weakened immune systems and chronic health conditions are the most recommended to receive the vaccine. The first vaccine involves the Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV13), followed by Pneumococcal Polysaccharide Vaccine (PPSV23) a year later.
COVID-19 Vaccine
The COVID-19 vaccine is highly recommended for senior citizens, although everyone aged 12 and above can receive the shot. However, the risk of severe symptoms increases with age, making COVID-19 a serious condition for the elderly. The COVID-19 vaccine helps prevent severe illnesses and takes two weeks to build immunity against the coronavirus.
Getting a vaccine is crucial for the elderly, especially those with underlying issues, weakened immune systems, or who have suffered serious illnesses previously. At Senior Helpers Metairie, we provide comprehensive home care for the elderly, including Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and dementia care in Metairie, Kenner, New Orleans, and Westwego. Contact Senior Helpers Metairie to get more insights into the most crucial vaccines and immunizations for senior citizens today.