As we age, the body's ability to fight off infections declines. We become vulnerable to certain illnesses that can affect the quality of our lives. However, through Immunization and vaccines for senior adults, we can help prevent certain health complications. This becomes a necessity if they have other underlying health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and hypertension. There are various immunizations and vaccines that are important for senior adults.
Here are 5 vaccines that every senior adult should get from Senior Helpers Thousand Oaks:
Pneumococcal Vaccine
Seniors are at a higher risk of developing the pneumococcal disease. The disease is airborne and spreads easily from person to person. Ensure that your senior loved one gets the vaccine to help prevent health complications that affect the lungs, such as pneumonia. The vaccine comes in different forms. You may have to talk to a physician to get the right vaccine for your loved one.
Shingles Vaccine
Shingles is a health condition that affects the nerves. This condition is caused by the virus that causes chicken pox. For seniors with a history of chickenpox, the virus could be reactivated, making them prone to shingles.
Whether or not they have had a chicken pox vaccine, getting a shingles vaccine may prevent this condition. Talk to a physician if a senior adult is unwell, has shingles, or has known allergies, as this will prevent further health complications.
Covid-19 Vaccine
Seniors have a higher risk of developing health complications that arise from Covid-19. Getting a Covid-19 vaccine for seniors minimizes the risks of contracting the virus. The vaccine takes approximately two weeks to help the body fight the virus that causes Covid-19. It is available as a single dose or a two-dose vaccine. For the two-dose vaccine, the second dose should be administered two weeks after the first dose.
Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Whooping Cough Vaccine
This vaccine prevents bacterial infections, tetanus, diphtheria, and whooping cough. To protect your senior loved one in Thousand Oaks, getting this vaccine is important. Although most people receive the vaccine in their childhood, getting a booster shot prevents serious complications in late adulthood. Seniors can get the booster shot after every 10 years.
Flu Vaccines
Senior citizens are more likely to develop flu. If the flu is not addressed early, it can cause pneumonia, a health complication that affects the lungs. Getting a flu vaccine will boost their immunity and help combat the flu virus.
The virus that causes flu keeps on mutating. Therefore, the vaccine should be administered annually, preferably at the onset of the flu season. There are flu vaccines that are specifically meant for persons over the age of 65. Talk to a physician to ensure that your loved one gets the right vaccine on time.
The Takeaway
Vaccines boost immunity, especially in senior citizens whose ability to fight off infections has declined. They can help protect your loved one from life-threatening illnesses. Before settling on any vaccine, you have to talk to a physician to discuss any health concerns. Keep all immunization records and indicate any side effects.
If you need any form of assistance in taking care of your senior loved one, including taking them for immunizations, Senior Helpers can help. We have exceptional services designed to offer care and support for your aging loved ones in Thousand Oaks, Westlake Village, Oxnard, and Newbury Park. Contact us today for more information.