Vaccines Recommended for Seniors in North Port, Florida

Vaccines save millions of lives every year; in fact, the Journal of Paediatrics and Child Health reported in 2022 that the COVID-19 vaccines prevented an estimated 14.4 million deaths at the time. That number has only grown in the years since the pandemic began. 

Have you ever wondered which vaccines you need as a senior? It may seem confusing, given the dozens of immunizations available. From flu and shingles shots to Tdap, the terminology can make your head spin. 

In this senior vaccine guide, we will cover the vaccines recommended for seniors in North Port, FL, as well as preventive care for aging adults in regards to vaccines. Let's get started. 

Vaccines Recommended for Seniors 

New vaccines enter the marketplace every year, and the next pioneering medical breakthrough is right around the corner. Therefore, the vaccine guidelines and recommendations are changing constantly based on research studies and new information available. 

Here are some of the most common vaccines recommended for seniors. 

Shingles

If you are over the age of 30, you probably contracted the chickenpox virus as a child. After suffering through symptoms such as painful and itchy red spots, you probably assumed that your body had rid itself of the virus.

Unfortunately, the chickenpox virus never leaves your body completely; it lies dormant, waiting for the chance to reactivate as shingles. 

Shingles is a painful condition, with the primary symptom being a red rash that features fluid-filled blisters. Other shingles symptoms can include: 

• Sensitivity to touch
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Fever

The gold standard shingles vaccine is Shingrix. Studies have shown that Shingrix is up to 90 percent effective in older adults with healthy immune systems. It's given in two doses, two to six months apart.

Even if you do not remember getting the chickenpox virus as a child or adolescent, it is still important to receive the shingles vaccine. You could have the virus in your body without knowing it, and the Shingrix vaccine can spare you from a painful infection that can also have lifelong complications. 

COVID-19 

COVID-19 is primarily a respiratory virus, although it has been shown to affect every area of the body. COVID-19 is constantly evolving, but it still shows several key symptoms, such as: 

• Fever
• Sore throat
• Body aches
• New taste and smell issues
• Laryngitis 
• Congestion
• Coughing

The current COVID-19 vaccinations are boosters and primarily aim to prevent serious illness and hospitalization. Complete protection from contracting the virus is limited, but receiving vaccines is still important for seniors, who are a more vulnerable group. 

You may be eligible to receive a COVID-19 booster every six months if you are in the qualifying demographic. It's even more important to get boosted if you suffer from conditions such as asthma or autoimmune disorders. 

RSV

Respiratory Syncytial Virus, or RSV, is a respiratory virus that is also highly contagious. It spreads easily in shared spaces like assisted living communities. 

Although RSV is not as detrimental for younger and middle-aged adults, it can pose significant risks for older folks. Symptoms of RSV include: 

• Fever
• Decreased appetite
• Runny nose
• Difficulty breathing
• Coughing
• Sneezing

The RSV vaccine can shield seniors from developing serious illness. Adults age 75 or older should receive a single dose of the vaccine, which can provide up to two years of protection. 

Pneumococcal 

Older adults are at a higher risk of developing pneumonia, a condition that can cause major lung problems and can even be fatal. The pneumococcal vaccine prevents infections from the Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria.

 If you are 50 years of age or older, you should receive one of the following types of pneumococcal vaccines:

• PCV15
• PCV20
• PCV21

Fortunately, these vaccines have very high effectiveness rates. You are less likely to get an infection from pneumonia bacteria, which can help prevent serious illness.

Tdap 

Tdap stands for:

• Tetanus
• Diphthereia
• Pertussis (whooping cough) 

All three conditions are caused by the same type of bacteria. They have been major causes of death in the past, especially for vulnerable groups such as young children and seniors. 

You should receive a new Tdap vaccine every 10 years to maintain optimal protection. 

Influenza 

Similar to COVID-19, the annual influenza booster aims to lessen the effects of the illness, rather than completely prevent transmission. It is important to remember that people still die from the flu, making it pertinent for seniors and other vulnerable demographics to get vaccinated. 

Aim to get your influenza vaccine in late summer or early autumn.  It takes a few weeks for the vaccine to provide full protection, so ensure you are vaccinated before peak season, which is usually in late autumn and winter.

One of the best memory care wellness tips is to set an annual reminder for your flu vaccine, so you will not forget to schedule your appointment. 

Adult Immunization Checklist

Not sure where to begin in regards to vaccines? Here's a simple checklist to guide you and ease any confusion.

Talk to Your Doctor

Discuss new vaccines with your doctor to see if you're eligible. They can evaluate your medical record to determine if you are a good candidate. 

Schedule Your Vaccines 

Schedule your vaccine appointments with your healthcare provider. Many local drugstores and pharmacies also offer vaccine appointments.

If you are prone to side effects, consider scheduling your shot for an optimal time. For instance, it may be a good idea to schedule it for a Friday so you can rest and recover over the weekend. 

Follow Recovery Guidelines 

Research potential side effects before you receive the vaccine. Prepare by stocking up on supplies such as:

• Over-the-counter painkillers
• Electrolytes for hydration 
• Easy snacks 

Use This Senior Vaccine Guide Today

As a senior, you should not have to worry about becoming ill with preventable diseases. Using this guide for vaccines recommended for seniors, you can work with your medical team to determine which vaccines you need and receive them at the right time. 

At Discovery Commons South Biscayne, we ensure our residents are mentally, physically, spiritually, and emotionally healthy. With various amenities and exclusive programs that focus on wellness, our dedicated staff helps our residents foster a fulfilling lifestyle. 

Ready to make the change to assisted living or memory care? Reach out to us today to learn more about all that our beautiful North Port community has to offer. We can't wait to hear from you!