According to the WHO, vaccinations have saved more than 154 million lives over the past five decades. This statistic highlights why immunization awareness month serves as an important reminder for Tulsa seniors to stay current with their vaccines.
As you age, your immune systems weaken, making preventive care essential for maintaining good health. This immunization month allows you to review your vaccination records and discuss updates with your healthcare providers.
Below is a senior vaccine guide to help you embrace healthy aging.
August marks National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM) across the United States. This month brings health advocates and medical professionals together to remind everyone about the importance of vaccines. For seniors in Tulsa, OK, this month offers numerous benefits, including:
National Immunization Awareness Month serves as a vital reminder for older adults that vaccines help to safeguard public health. They prevent the spread of dangerous diseases.
Seniors face higher risks of infections. Their immune systems work less effectively than those of younger people. August reminds them that prevention is always better than treatment.
When seniors get vaccinated, entire senior living communities in Tulsa, OK, benefit. Immunizations protect not just individuals but their loved ones too. Preventative care in Tulsa encourages herd immunity, protecting neighbors and family members.
August gives seniors time to prepare for flu season as part of healthy aging tips. Fall and winter bring higher infection risks. Getting vaccinated in August allows immunity to build before these peak illness months.
Use August to create your adult immunization checklist. Contact your doctor about needed vaccines. Review your vaccination records and make appointments before busy fall schedules begin.
When your immune system weakens, you become more susceptible to severe complications from preventable diseases. Luckily, vaccines for seniors can boost your defenses. Here are the vaccines you should get.
Seniors are at the highest risk for flu complications. According to the NIH, 50%-70% of flu-related hospitalizations occur for adults aged 65+. Having the flu can lead to complications such as:
Your aging immune system makes you more vulnerable. The annual flu vaccination can prevent complications, reducing the rate of hospitalizations. You should consider a high-dose or adjuvanted flu vaccine for better protection.
Pneumonia is a health risk for seniors. According to Medical News Today, pneumonia and influenza rank as the 8th leading cause of death in the United States. This is why getting flu and pneumonia shots should be a priority.
Here are some pneumococcal vaccines you can get:
If you haven't been vaccinated, get a single dose of PCV20, PCV21, or PCV15. After that, go for a shot of the PPSV23 vaccine a year later.
COVID-19 still has dangerous effects on older adults. It can lead to complications with your heart and lungs. Adults aged 65+ should get two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine annually.
You need to take each dose six months apart to ensure optimal protection. Since COVID is contagious, immunizations ensure safety in your senior amenities.
Shingles happens when the chickenpox virus that has been resting in your body becomes active again. It usually causes a painful rash and nerve pain.
To protect themselves, seniors are advised to get two doses of the Shingrix vaccine. You should get these doses even if you've had chickenpox or shingles before because the vaccine helps prevent future outbreaks.
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a contagious virus that infects your lungs and breathing passages. For seniors, RSV can cause serious lung disease. Adults aged 60 and older can protect themselves with one of three approved RSV vaccines:
These vaccines are all effective in reducing severe RSV illness and hospital visits. Talk to your healthcare provider about which RSV vaccine is right for you to keep your body healthy.
Your senior vaccination checklist should include the Tdap vaccine. Ensure you get one dose of Tdap if you have never had it as a kid. After the first dose, you need a Tdap or Td booster shot every 10 years throughout your life.
To develop a personalized vaccination plan, collaborate with your healthcare provider. Start by gathering your immunization records, including dates and types of previous vaccines. Your adult immunization checklist should include:
Remember that some vaccines cannot be given simultaneously. Your healthcare provider will create an appropriate vaccine schedulebased on your needs.
To maximize vaccine effectiveness, you need to do more than show up for your appointment. This is why you should consider these preparation strategies before getting vaccines:
Consider timing your vaccines strategically. If you're planning to visit family for holidays, get vaccinated at least two weeks beforehand to allow full immunity to develop.
Immunization awareness month serves as your annual reminder that prevention is better than a cure. When you stay updated with recommended vaccines, you're investing in your independence and quality of life.
At Country Club at Woodland Hills, our resort-style amenities include a full calendar of activities and events designed to keep you physically active and socially engaged. We also offer 24-hour concierge service, ensuring you never miss important healthcare appointments like vaccinations. Get in touch to stay healthy and active during your golden years.