Flu Vaccine for Seniors: Protection and Prevention in Shoal Creek

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports that between 70% and 85% of flu-related fatalities occur in older adults above 65 years. This is because seniors have weakened immune systems and often develop severe complications caused by the flu.

Kansas City, MO, has high-quality healthcare locations, making it a perfect retirement location. Besides, the area has a vibrant cultural scene to keep seniors occupied and entertained.

Although the flu seasons in Kansas City may vary, most older individuals experience severe flu symptoms throughout the year.

Let's discuss how the flu vaccine for seniors benefits aging adults and supports wellness.

Flu Vaccines for Seniors in Kansas City, MO

The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) and the CDC recommend that seniors aged 65 and older get the higher-dose flu vaccines or the adjuvanted inactivated flu shot. These kinds of immunizations are believed to be more efficient compared to the standard dose unadjuvanted flu vaccines.

However, if neither of the senior flu shots MO above are available at the healthcare center, older adults should get the standard dose unadjuvanted inactivated flu shot instead. Seniors in assisted living Kansas City should not receive any nasal spray vaccine.

High-Dose Flu Vaccine

The Fluzone high-dose vaccine has four times the antigen contained in standard-dose flu shots. Antigen is a part of the vaccine that helps your body protect itself against flu viruses. High-dose vaccines have more antigens to give older individuals a better immune response to the shot, and thus more protection against influenza or the flu.

Adjuvanted Flu Vaccine

This flu shot contains an ingredient referred to as an adjuvant, which is added to the vaccine to develop a stronger immune response. The adjuvanted flu shot is recommended for seniors aged 65 and above. This age group often has a less protective immune response after the flu shot compared to younger adults.

Administration of Flu Immunization

Seasonal vaccines against the flu are generally administered in September and October before the start of the flu season. Adults above 65 years should not get the flu shot earlier than September, as the protection is likely to reduce over time. However, if you're not able to get the shot at any other time due to unavoidable circumstances, early immunization should be considered.

While getting the flu shot, it's advisable to receive the pneumococcal vaccine for enhanced preventative care for seniors. Most aging adults with the flu are at a high risk of contracting pneumonia. This illness is among the severe flu-related complications that eventually cause death.

Older individuals above 50 years and living in Addington Place of Shoal Creek should be up to date with the pneumonia shot. This immunization keeps you safe from pneumonia and other life-threatening diseases. Your healthcare provider or personal care assistant should advise you on the type of pneumococcal vaccine that's best for you.

Common Side Effects of the Flu Vaccine for Seniors

The high-dose seasonal vaccine given to older adults causes milder and temporary side effects compared to the standard one. These symptoms normally go away in one to three days. Some of the possible side effects of senior flu shots in MO include the following:

Fatigue
Muscle ache
Headache
Redness, swelling, and pain at the injection site

Allergic reactions after getting the flu shot are quite rare. If you're concerned about anaphylaxis, consult your primary care provider for the best flu vaccine option that suits you.

Preventive Care for Seniors Against the Flu

Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent yourself and those around you from getting the flu. However, aside from immunization, there are other ways aging adults in senior living in Kansas City can stay safe during the flu season. Below are vital tips for seniors' preventative care against the flu:

Practice Good Hygiene Habits

The flu virus is spread easily through secretions when an infected individual talks, sneezes, or coughs. An infected person can spread the flu virus to those close to them a day before the symptoms show up and up to five days after infection.

By practicing proper hygiene, you reduce the risk of getting sick and infecting other residents of Addington Place of Shoal Creek. Some of the good hygiene habits you should adopt to enhance wellness support for older adults include the following:

Regularly disinfect high-touch surfaces like light switches, cell phones, and remote controls
Always cover your sneezes and coughs with your elbow or a tissue
Avoid touching your mouth, nose, and eyes
Keep the windows in your senior living apartment open for improved air quality

Stay Active

Regular physical activity in older adults keeps you fit and also strengthens your immune system. According to the American Physiological Society, exercising for 15 minutes increases the number of white blood cells, which are responsible for fighting diseases.

Addington Place of Shoal Creek offers a senior fitness program that promotes an active and balanced lifestyle. Our fitness center is well-equipped with senior-friendly equipment. Low-impact exercises such as chair exercises and stretching are also beneficial for seniors with mobility limitations.

Prioritize Hydration and Good Nutrition

Factors such as environmental toxins, chronic diseases, and old age can negatively affect your immune system. Eating a balanced diet rich in lean proteins and whole fruits and vegetables helps your body fight infections. In addition, remember to drink at least eight glasses of water every day to enhance your body's functionality.

Residents of Addington Place of Shoal Creek have chef-prepared nutritious meals three times a day. The ingredients used are fresh and natural, thus limiting the intake of additives and processed foods.

Enhance Wellness By Getting the Flu Vaccine for Seniors

As you age, your immune system weakens, making it difficult for your body to fight infections such as the flu. This is why the flu vaccine for seniors is recommended to prevent severe complications. Consult with a trusted medical care provider about the type of vaccine that's suitable for you and ensure you get an annual aging immunization against the flu.

Addington Place of Shoal Creek is a premier assisted living community that offers personalized support and care to fit the individual needs of residents. We have a team of professionals who help you manage your medications and organize fun activities.