Understanding Immunizations & Vaccinations for Seniors
With age the immune system weakens making it more difficult for the elderly to fight off infections, which is why vaccines are especially important for seniors. Seniors are more susceptible to diseases like pneumonia, shingles and the flu and are also more likely to have complications from the diseases which can lead to long-term illness or death.
Getting the proper vaccines can help to keep you, your family and others around you healthy. Below are some of the important vaccines for seniors to get. To see a full list of immunizations recommended by the CDC, click here.
- Influenza: Getting the flu as a senior can be extremely harmful and even result in death. Getting a yearly flu shot is important to prevent from catching the flu. Talk to your doctor about which flu vaccine is right for you.
- TDAP: The TDAP vaccine protects you against Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis. These vaccines for seniors are recommended every 10 years. Pertussis which is also known as whooping cough while it can be harmful to infants, by getting this vaccine you are protecting you and your family from this illness.
- Chicken Pox & Shingles: If you have never had or only had the first dose of chicken pox vaccine as a child, now is the time to get vaccinated. Shingles commonly occurs in those over the age of 50 and can lead to serious complications. Talk to your doctor to make sure you have the proper protection against chicken pox and shingles.
- Pneumococcal: Contracting Pneumonia can lead to serious complications and is responsible for many senior deaths. If you had the pneumococcal vaccine as a child, still talk to your doctor to see if you need another one time shot.
- Other Vaccinations: Seniors who suffer from other medical conditions may be more susceptible to other illnesses. Talk to your doctor to find out what other vaccinations are recommended for you.
These are only some of the recommended vaccinations for seniors, as always talk to your doctor about the recommended vaccines for you.
