Vaccines for Seniors in Lexington, KY: What to Know
According to the CDC, adults aged 65 and older account for between 70 and 85 percent of flu-related deaths in the United States. As we age, our immune systems weaken, making it harder to fight off infections.
That's why vaccines for seniors are a critical part of staying healthy in Lexington, KY, a historic city known for its horse farms, bluegrass landscape, and modern culture.
Today, we're taking a closer look at which vaccines are recommended, where to get them, and how they support overall wellness.
Why Vaccines Matter for Seniors
As people grow older, their immune systems don't work as well as they used to. This makes it easier to catch infections and harder to recover. There are three main reasons why vaccines are important for older adults:
- They reduce the risk of severe disease and complications
- They support independent living and overall health
- They help protect those around them who may also be vulnerable
They Reduce the Risk of Severe Disease and Complications
Older adults are more likely to develop complications from common infections. A simple case of the flu can turn into pneumonia.
Shingles can cause long-term nerve pain. Even a minor illness can lead to days or weeks of recovery. Vaccines lower the chances of these outcomes and can keep common infections from becoming more serious.
They Support Independent Living and Overall Health
Staying healthy means being able to do the things you enjoy. Whether it's running errands, going for walks, or visiting with friends, feeling well helps older adults stay active. By lowering the chance of getting sick, vaccines help seniors stay on their feet and in their routines.
They Help Protect Others Who May Also Be Vulnerable
Getting vaccinated doesn't just protect the person who receives it. It also helps stop the spread of illness to others.
Many seniors live with or spend time around people who may have their own health issues. Vaccines play a part in keeping whole households and communities safer.
Commonly Recommended Vaccines for Seniors
Doctors recommend a small group of vaccines to help protect older adults from common and serious illnesses. Many of them are part of an adult immunization checklist that can be reviewed during regular doctor visits.
There are five main vaccines that most seniors should ask about:
- Flu shot
- Pneumococcal vaccine
- Shingles vaccine
- Tdap or Td booster
- COVID-19 vaccine and boosters
Flu Shot
The flu shot is recommended once a year for all adults, but it's especially helpful for those over 65. The flu virus changes each year, so getting the shot every season is the best way to lower your risk. Older adults often receive a stronger version of the vaccine to get more protection.
Pneumococcal Vaccine
This vaccine helps prevent pneumonia, a common illness that can be dangerous for seniors. It also protects against other infections caused by the same bacteria. Some adults may need two different types of pneumonia vaccines, depending on their health history.
Shingles Vaccine
Shingles is a painful rash that can happen in people who had chickenpox as a child. The shingles vaccine helps prevent the rash and the nerve pain that can come with it. Most adults should get this vaccine at age 50 or older.
Tdap or Td Booster
Tetanus, diphtheria, and whooping cough are still a risk, even for older adults. A Tdap or Td booster is usually recommended every ten years. Some doctors suggest the Tdap version to help protect against whooping cough, especially for seniors who are often around infants.
COVID-19 Vaccine and Boosters
COVID-19 continues to affect older adults more than any other group. The COVID-19 vaccine, along with booster shots, lowers the chance of severe illness. Seniors should stay in touch with their doctor to make sure they are up to date with the latest booster recommendations.
Local Vaccine Access in Lexington, KY
Getting vaccinated is easier when services are close by and easy to use. Seniors in Lexington have several options for where to get their shots. Local pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens offer many common vaccines.
Most allow walk-ins, and some let you schedule an appointment ahead of time. These stores often carry flu and pneumonia vaccines, as well as shingles and COVID-19 shots.
Primary care clinics also provide vaccines as part of routine care. Seniors who visit their doctors for yearly checkups can ask about any immunizations they may need. This is a good time to go over an adult immunization checklist and make sure all records are up to date.
The Lexington-Fayette County Health Department helps connect older adults to vaccine services. They may hold special clinics during flu season or offer guidance for those who are unsure where to go. For seniors with limited transportation or mobility, some home health agencies in the area may provide in-home shots.
No matter the setting, preventive care for seniors should include regular vaccines.
Memory Care Wellness and Immunization
Older adults living with memory loss need extra support to stay healthy. Regular vaccines are part of that care. In many cases, seniors with Alzheimer's or dementia may not be able to manage their health routines without help.
That's why memory care wellness plans often include scheduled vaccines. These plans can lower the risk of serious illness and help reduce trips to the hospital.
Many memory care communities work closely with families and doctors to keep vaccine records up to date.
Residents can stay current with flu and pneumonia vaccines, shingles protection, and COVID-19 shots. This helps prevent sickness from spreading through the community.
Health Tips for Aging Seniors
Vaccines for seniors play a big role in protecting health and supporting independence.
At Preston Greens Senior Living, we offer Personal Care and Memory Care that's both personalized and dignified. Our modern community in Lexington is built for comfort and connection, with amenities such as a resident garden, a dog park, a putting green, and more. We focus on each resident's needs, helping them enjoy a full, independent life in a setting that feels like home.
Get in touch today to find out how we can help with your loved one's care!