Give it a Shot

The thought of former president Franklin D. Roosevelt probably conjures a certain image in your mind—a bespeckled man in a suit, sitting in a wheelchair. Though generally thought to be a "child's disease," FDR contracted a paralytic form of polio while vacationing over the summer he turned 39. Since then, however, polio has been eradicated in all countries except Afghanistan and Pakistan.

Based on the title of this article, we bet you can guess why. That's right—vaccines.

Vaccines are an important part of maintaining good health as you get older because your immune system can weaken with age. The CDC recommended four vaccines that all adults 50 and older should stay up-to-date with to help keep everyone in our community healthy.

Those vaccines include:

COVID - In February, the CDC recommended adults 65 and older get a booster four months after their last one (aka a second booster after the initial vaccine). However, fewer than 25% of Americans have done so since the fall. After the spike in cases this summer, and with "wedding season" events coming up, it's important to make sure you're current with your boosters.

Flu - From 2022 to 2023, the CDC estimates the United States had 31 million flu cases, resulting in 21,000 deaths. However, an annual flu shot can not only help you fight off the illness, but research shows those who get vaccinated are less likely to suffer from dementia and Alzheimer's.

Pneumonia - People 65 and older are more likely to have life-threatening complications if they contract pneumonia, including infections. That's why older adults need two shots, given at least 8 weeks apart, of PCV13 and PPSV23. The CDC reports at least one shot of PCV13 prevents 75% of people 65 and older from getting pneumococcal pneumonia.

Shingles - Most adults 50 and older should get two doses of the shingles vaccine (the second dose 2 to 6 months after the first). Research shows that two doses are 76% effective and can protect you from this illness for up to 7 years. Keep in mind that shingles can cause dementia, stroke and heart disease in older adults.

Tdap – This vaccine protects you for 10 years from tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis (whooping cough). As you may know, being vaccinated as an adult also can help protect babies from whooping cough, which can be deadly for them.

Remember, while concerns are natural, relying on scientifically proven information is important when considering your health. Vaccines, whether made from weakened viruses (ex. MMR) or not (ex. COVID), undergo rigorous testing for safety and effectiveness before being approved for public use. Side effects, while possible, are typically mild and far outweigh the potential risks of not being vaccinated.

Ultimately, having an open conversation with your provider about your concerns is important so you can make an informed decision. Then, you and your doctor can map out a care plan.

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