From crisp mornings to colorful leaves and pumpkins, the fall season is a welcome change from summer. Fall also brings some unwelcome changes, namely an increase in colds, flu and COVID cases. Seniors are especially vulnerable and should take steps to help protect themselves. Let’s talk about one of the most important considerations – vaccines and seniors.
Flu Vaccines for Seniors
The flu is a virus that can mimic symptoms of the common cold but may also include fever, chills, and muscle aches. In seniors, it can also lead to complications like pneumonia.
The CDC recommends that everyone age 6 months and older get an annual flu shot. The CDC reported that 50-70% of seasonal flu related hospitalizations occur among people 65 years of age and older, making it critically important for seniors to get their flu shot each year.
Ideally, the CDC recommends that seniors get their flu vaccine by the end of October as it takes at least two weeks for the vaccine to be effective. However, it’s not too late to get it later than October as flu season typically peaks in December and January.
Flu shots are available from your doctor’s office, as well as at some grocery stores, drug stores, and pharmacies. For additional information on the flu vaccine, or to see if it is right for you or a loved one, please speak with your doctor. You should always consult with your doctor prior to receiving any vaccinations.
COVID Vaccines for seniors
The last couple of years have been a very difficult time for everyone. It seems like the information on COVID is always changing and we are constantly learning more. The CDC recommends COVID vaccinations as the best protection against COVID and the severities of COVID. The risk of severe illness from COVID-19 increases with age too, making it especially important for seniors to get their COVID Vaccine.
According to the CDC, “People 65 and older who received both doses of either Pfizer or Moderna vaccines showed a 94% reduced risk of COVID-19 related hospitalization. Unvaccinated people should get vaccinated and continue masking until they are fully vaccinated. With the Delta variant, this is more urgent than ever.”
For information on the COVID Vaccine, please visit the Department of Health website and/or the Centers for Disease Control website. Information regarding the COVID-19 vaccine should only be taken from reliable and credible sources.
Additional Vaccines for Seniors to Consider
Many seniors may feel that they do not need vaccines, or are concerned about the side effects of those vaccines. However, the complications from the sickness or disease may pose a higher risk to seniors. It’s critically important that seniors speak with their doctor about what vaccinations are important for them.
Some vaccines that seniors may want to consider when speaking with their doctor include the flu vaccine, pneumococcal vaccine to prevent pneumonia, shingles vaccine, and a tetanus-diptheria-pertussis vaccine (Tdap).
Keeping Seniors in Their Homes – It’s what we do!
Senior LIFE is an alternative to nursing home care that seeks to keep seniors living at home and in their community for as long as possible. Members on Medicaid who live in the community pay no out of pocket costs for services!
Senior LIFE medical and supportive services are centered around each individual member’s unique needs. The ability to receive quality health care and support in the home is an invaluable option for seniors and their families.
Contact us today to learn more about how Senior LIFE can help you to stay active and independent at home for as long as possible.
See f you qualify for services at no cost to you!
