Almost four out of every 10 seniors received a COVID vaccination last year, according to CBS News.
For older adults in Lafayette, Indiana, staying healthy is a critical part of making the most of one's later years. Preventive care plays a major role in boosting health and confidence as people grow older.
For those living in a senior community like Digby Place, it's worth understanding recommended vaccines for seniors and why they can support a better lifestyle. Read on to learn how you can take straightforward steps toward protecting your long-term well-being.
As people age, the immune system doesn't work as well as it used to. It means older adults are more likely to get sick and may take longer to recover.
Infections that might be mild for younger individuals can become serious or even life-threatening in seniors. Vaccines provide added protection by helping the immune system respond faster.
Living in a senior community such as Digby Place offers opportunities to stay connected and supported, which makes preventive care even more important. Vaccinations are a vital part of this care and help prevent illness from spreading within the community.
Health professionals offer a specific adult vaccines list for people 65 and older. Immunizations like these protect against common infections and help reduce the following:
Although the emergency phase of the COVID-19 pandemic has ended, the virus continues to pose risks, especially for seniors. Updated COVID-19 vaccines and boosters remain important. They help reduce the chances of serious illness, hospitalization, or long-term complications.
In communities like Digby Place, residents are often encouraged to stay current with their COVID-19 vaccines so they can stay active and participate in everyday social activities with confidence.
Adults should get a Td booster every 10 years. If a senior hasn't had the Tdap vaccine before, a doctor may recommend it instead of one Td dose.
Such illnesses may seem rare, but they can still cause severe problems, especially in older adults. Getting this booster keeps seniors protected and helps prevent the spread of illness to younger family members.
One of the most well-known and essential vaccines is the influenza shot, often simply called the flu shot. The vaccine is updated each year to match the most common flu strains.
In Lafayette, Indiana, flu cases often begin rising in October and continue through early spring. Getting vaccinated early helps reduce the risk of serious illness.
The flu and pneumonia shots are often recommended together because both offer protection from respiratory infections. The pneumonia vaccine helps prevent infections caused by pneumococcal bacteria, which can lead to pneumonia, bloodstream infections, and meningitis.
There are two types of pneumococcal vaccines: PCV15 or PCV20 and PPSV23. A healthcare provider can recommend the right schedule based on a person's vaccine history and health needs. Such vaccines are especially valuable in senior communities where respiratory illnesses can spread more easily.
For seniors, contracting shingles can cause persistent nerve pain, even after the rash clears up. The shingles vaccine is ideal for adults over 50 and is given in two doses a few months apart.
Getting the shingles vaccine can prevent weeks of discomfort and avoid complications that interfere with:
The adult vaccines list provides strong general guidelines, but individual health needs vary. It's important for seniors to talk with their doctor or local pharmacist about their specific health situation. Someone with diabetes, heart disease, or a weakened immune system may need a different vaccination schedule than someone without these conditions.
Keeping a written record of past vaccines and asking questions during regular checkups can help make decisions easier and more personalized.
Lafayette offers access to local health providers and pharmacies that help seniors stay on top of their immunization needs. Flu shots and other vaccines are often available at nearby clinics and pharmacies throughout the fall and winter.
Communities like Digby Place provide a supportive environment where residents can:
While each resident works with their own doctor, living in a location where wellness is encouraged makes a big difference.
Senior immunizations in IN are most effective when combined with healthy habits. The following aging health tips can help seniors stay strong and improve how their bodies respond to vaccines.
Getting enough sleep is important because rest helps the immune system work at its best. Don't forget to eat well and stay away from processed foods.
Staying hydrated keeps energy levels steady and supports recovery after vaccination. Frequent physical activity, even short walks, helps enhance circulation and boost immunity. Keeping track of vaccine dates and setting reminders can also help seniors stay on top of their preventive care.
In a senior living community like Digby Place, preventive care is part of a larger culture of well-being. Although each person makes their own choices about health care, the support of a community can make those choices easier to follow through with. Friendly reminders, educational discussions, and opportunities to learn more all contribute to better outcomes.
When everyone in a community is focused on staying healthy, it creates a positive environment where wellness is encouraged. Preventive care, including vaccines, becomes a shared value rather than a chore.
By knowing the details of recommended vaccines for seniors, you can decide what's right for you.
Digby Place Assisted Living is where seniors come to thrive and get the most out of their golden years. Resident always talk about how much they love the exercise classes, the regular board game socializers, and the local outings for some stress-releasing shopping. Every day is fueled by freshly-prepared meals from experienced chefs.
Are you interested in joining Digby Place? If so, don't wait to come by and enjoy a guided tour.