When the weather begins to turn cooler, it means that flu season is on its way. Unfortunately, the flu doesn’t discriminate and will affect any and everyone it can, regardless of age. Seniors are at a unique risk because their immune systems typically aren’t as strong as they were years ago. If the senior lives in assisted living in Arizona, they may not be subjected to extremely cold winters; however, the flu is still a serious risk. Understanding more about how they can protect themselves is key.
Should You Get a Flu Vaccine?
The absolute best way to protect yourself from getting the flu, regardless of your age or current health, is to receive a flu vaccine. Since all the way back in the 1960s, the CDC has been recommending that everyone over the age of 65 receive a flu shot. In 2000, they lowered the age to 50. Some additional guidelines about who should receive the flu shot include:
- Anyone who is at a high risk of developing complications from the flu.
- Any person who is in regular and close contact with those at high risk, including caregivers for seniors.
- Anyone who has a compromised immune system.
There are many AZ assisted living facilities that bring in doctors or nurses to provide their residents with flu vaccines. This is beneficial as it ensures the residents will have the best protection possible from the flu.
Is the Flu Vaccine Guaranteed to Work?
According to information from the CDC, it is estimated that the vaccine will work, on average, 50 to 60 percent of the time. How effective the vaccine is for a person will vary based on their health, age and the different types of viruses that are circulating. In an assisted living facility, it is imperative for residents, staff members and anyone visiting take a flu vaccine to keep from getting those with compromised immune systems sick.
Does the U.S. have a Typical Flu Season?
The flu season is going to change from year to year. However, the typical flu season will start around Halloween, will be at its peak around Super Bowl time and then over by Easter. However, this can vary and it is possible to get the flu any time of year.
What Vaccines are Best for those Over the Age of 65?
People who are over the age of 65, living at home or in assisted living in Arizona will have a few options to choose from when it comes to the flu vaccine. While they can opt for the standard shot, they can also choose from a high dose vaccine, which is 24.2 percent more effective in preventing flu in seniors, and adjuvant vaccines. An important note is that those over the age of 65 should not get vaccines that are injected into the skin, only those that are injected in the muscle are acceptable.
Understanding the flu and what vaccines are available can help a senior prevent cases of this disease this year, and every year thereafter.
More information about flu vaccines and senior health can be found by visiting the A Caring Hand for Mom (and Dad).
