Older adults make up about 70 to 85 percent of seasonal flu-related deaths, and are at the highest risk of severe-to-fatal pneumonia than any other age group. Accordingly, while immunizations are important for people of every age, they are of critical importance to older adults.

Understanding Immunosenescence

Immunosenescence is a natural part of aging that affects the body’s ability to respond to infections and vaccines. As we grow older, our immune system’s response becomes slower and less effective, making it harder for the body to fight off infections. Additionally, the production of new immune cells declines, and existing immune cells may become less responsive to threats.

This decline in immune function not only increases the risk of contracting illnesses, but also makes recovery far more difficult. Older adults are more likely to experience complications from infections, leading to longer recovery times, hospitalization and even death.

The Impact of Communicable Diseases on Older Adults

Communicable diseases—diseases that can spread from person-to-person, or even from animal-to-person—can have a devastating impact on communities of older adults. Common infections, such as influenza, pneumonia, COVID-19 and shingles, can spread quickly among older populations, leading to outbreaks that can strain healthcare resources and endanger lives.

The annual season for getting updated flu and COVID-19 shots is fairly well-marketed, and generally falls during September and October for optimum protection during the winter months. Most drug store and pharmacy chains in the US offer free flu and COVID vaccines if you bring proof of insurance. Both of these vaccines can lower your risk of developing the illness, and lower the severity of the illness should you still develop it.

Shingles, which is caused by the reactivation of the chickenpox virus, is another concern for older adults. Shingles usually presents as a painful, itching rash or series of blisters that are sensitive to the touch, though is some rare cases, external signs may not be present. The condition can lead to severe pain, discomfort and a diminished quality of life. The shingles vaccine is highly effective in preventing this painful condition and is recommended for adults aged 50 and older.

Another significant concern is the spread of pertussis, or whooping cough. Though most commonly associated with children, older adults are the population with the second highest hospitalization rates for whooping cough. The Tdap vaccine, which protects against tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis, is an important immunization for older adults, particularly those who are in close contact with infants or immunocompromised individuals.

How Older Adults Can Stay on Top of Their Immunizations

Staying up to date with immunizations is one of the most effective ways for older adults to protect themselves against serious infections. Here are some steps older adults can take to ensure they are properly vaccinated:

  • Take Advantage of Community Resources: Many communities offer vaccination clinics, especially during flu season. Older adults can take advantage of these resources, which may provide convenient access to vaccinations at local pharmacies, community centers or senior living facilities.
     
  • Consult with Healthcare Providers: Have regular conversations with your healthcare providers about your vaccination needs. Primary care physicians, geriatricians and pharmacists can provide guidance on which vaccines are necessary based on age, health status, and lifestyle.
     
  • Keep a Vaccination Record: Maintaining a personal vaccination record can help you and your healthcare providers track which immunizations you have received and when you are due for boosters. This record should be updated regularly and reviewed at each healthcare visit.
     
  • Be Aware of Vaccine Schedules: The CDC provides guidelines for adult immunizations, including specific recommendations for older adults. Key vaccines for older adults include the influenza vaccine (annually), COVID-19 booster (annually), the pneumococcal vaccine (about every 5 years after the initial two doses), the shingles vaccine (about every 7 years after the initial two doses) and the Tdap vaccine (every 10 years). Stay informed about these schedules ensures that older adults receive timely protection against infectious diseases.
     
  • Address Vaccine Hesitancy: If you are hesitant to receive vaccines due to concerns about side effects or doubts about efficacy, it is important to address these concerns through open discussions with healthcare providers, who can provide evidence-based information about the safety and effectiveness of vaccines. It’s also important to remember that communicable diseases are not just an issue of personal health, but an issue of public health. The less a community at large takes preventative measures, the higher the chances are that multiple members of that community will experience severe or even fatal cases of the illness.