ELDERLY SHOTS - WHY WHEN AND WHAT

 

Simply Vaccination is injecting immunogenic substance of an isolated virus, bacteria to prevent disease caused by the same by forming antibodies against it. It is applicable across age groups with an individualized approach. Particularly, we all are aware of Paediatric vaccination and its schedule but elderly vaccination needs to be pinned up the list firstly because it is preventable to a greater extent and secondly grey tsunami of older populace would be grappling India in a decade.

 

This essay briefly describes through major benefits elderly vaccination offers to an older adult, when and what vaccines to be administered above 60 years of age with an individualized approach

 

Vaccination can help reduce the severity of illnesses, preventing hospitalization and its related complications.

 

Vaccines protect against various infectious diseases, such as influenza (flu), pneumonia, shingles, and others. These illnesses become more severe in older adults, leading to increased morbidity and mortality.

 

In places like nursing homes or assisted living facilities infectious diseases spread rapidly. Here, vaccination helps create a barrier against outbreaks, protecting vulnerable populations in close quarters.

 

Vaccination can contribute to maintaining a better quality of life for the elderly by preventing debilitating diseases and reducing the risk of complications. This allows seniors to remain more active and independent.

 

Vaccination reduces the economic burden associated with medical treatments, hospitalizations, and long-term care for preventable diseases.

 

As people age, their immune systems may weaken, leading to reduced protection from previously encountered diseases. Vaccines are designed to provide additional immunity and help the aging immune system respond effectively to threats.

 

Vaccination prevent complications that may arise from common infections in older adults. For example, pneumonia can lead to serious respiratory problems, and the flu can exacerbate existing health conditions.

By ensuring that the elderly population is vaccinated, public health is safeguarded. This not only protects older individuals but also contributes to the overall well-being of the community.

 

Older adults commonly present with co-morbidities. Needless to say, this lowers the immunity to an extent where milder infections set in major limitation of the person also called as Deconditioning of the body as a whole. Taking this forward, in my clinical practice vaccinated older adults lead a better quality of life and less frequent hospitalizations.

Anytime, Prevention is better than cure and hence I recommended the vaccine for following preventable diseases generating 85-90% immunity

1. Pneumonia – one shot in 2 – 5 years

2. Influenza – once every year

3. Hepatitis B – three dose series/booster

4. Varicella Zoster (Shingles) – 2-3 doses series ( >60 y)

Conclusively, vaccination safeguards elderly population over all health by reducing the burden of preventable diseases, and promoting a healthier and more resilient community. Regularly updating vaccinations according to healthcare authority recommendations is essential for maintaining the well-being of older adults.

 

Dr Akshat Khandekar

Family and Geriatric Medicine

 

 

Reference:

1.Guidelines for vaccination in normal adults in India. Indian J Nephrol. 2016 Apr;26(Suppl 1):S7–S14. PMCID: PMC4928530.

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