According to the U.S. CDC's 2023 to 2024 flu season preliminary data, influenza caused an estimated 40.1 million symptomatic illnesses in the country. An estimated 470,676 hospitalizations and nearly 28,000 deaths also resulted from this illness. Of symptomatic cases, over 2.6 million (6.5%) occurred within the senior population (65 years or older), as well as 50.4% of hospitalizations and 68.1% of fatalities.
With all the dangerous, even deadly effects of influenza, getting a flu vaccine for seniors must be a top priority.
To that end, the compassionate team at Campbell Place Assisted Living, our assisted living community in the charming, historic city of Bellefontaine, OH, which also serves as the Logan County seat, created this senior immunization guide to influenza. Read on to learn how flu vaccines for older adults can protect, even save lives.
The flu is a respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. As the World Health Organization (WHO) explains, there are four types of flu viruses: influenza A, B, C, and D. Types A and B are the most common, type C is less prevalent, while type D only affects cattle.
Influenza viruses spread through airborne droplets emitted by infected people. They release these secretions when they breathe, talk, cough, or sneeze.
Non-infected individuals who breathe in the air contaminated with the airborne flu viruses can then become ill. Although less common, flu transmission can also occur when a person touches a flu-infected surface and then inhales the virus when touching their face.
The flu vaccine can help stop influenza viruses from causing an infection by triggering the vaccinated individual's immune system to create antibodies.
Antibodies are proteins. They bind to antigens, which are "foreign invaders" like influenza viruses, and then neutralize or eliminate them. By fighting off these viruses, the body can combat the possible illness that these pathogens or disease-causing microorganisms can cause.
The different types of flu vaccine for seniors can also help promote herd immunity or population immunity. It refers to the indirect protection that the vaccines can help provide when more people have had the shots. The higher the number of older adults vaccinated, the fewer people who can get infected, and the fewer individuals who can spread the virus to others.
The U.S. CDC has three "preferentially recommended" flu vaccines for older adults. The recommendation stems from studies showing that these shots provide potentially better results than standard-dose, unadjuvanted flu vaccines that work well in younger people and adults who are in generally good health. Since seniors often have weaker immune systems, they typically need higher levels of protection, which the following influenza shots can provide:
Ideally, administration of flu vaccines for seniors in Bellefontaine should occur in September, before the flu season. The Ohio Department of Health says that the state's flu season can start as early as October (and run until March). Getting inoculated before this can help older adults prepare their bodies to fight off possible infections.
Not getting the recommended flu vaccine for seniors can result in a higher risk of developing severe complications. Here are some examples of flu-related complications that can affect unvaccinated older adults in Bellefontaine.
Sometimes, the flu can block and inflame the Eustachian tubes. The Eustachian tubes are small pathways from the middle ear to the back of the throat.
Clogged Eustachian tubes can result in fluids in the middle ear being unable to drain. When this happens, germs, including bacteria, can start to breed in the ear.
Ear infections can cause pain and even hearing loss in seniors.
The sinuses are hollow spaces or cavities in the bones around the nose and the skull filled with air. When a person gets the flu, these spaces can become inflamed and blocked with mucus. The clog can prevent proper draining of the mucus, creating a conducive environment for bacteria and other pathogens to cause infections, such as sinusitis.
Pneumonia is a more severe complication of the flu. It occurs when the alveoli of the lungs, which are air sacs in which gas exchange occurs, become blocked with fluids or pus.
The blockage can prevent oxygen from getting into the bloodstream, resulting in potential cellular death. It can also stop carbon dioxide from entering the lungs and getting expelled through exhalation.
Influenza encephalitis is an inflammation of the brain caused by a flu infection. Although rare, it can be dangerous, as it can cause neurological problems in seniors. It may also cause brain damage, possibly resulting in mental and cognitive complications like depression or memory loss.
The consensus is that vaccination is the best shot for combating the flu, especially in seniors. However, there are other strategies to improve immunity and achieve optimal senior health in Bellefontaine, such as implementing aging immune support tactics like the following stress management techniques:
Managing stress is crucial, as chronic stress can weaken the immune system. Regular exercise can also help strengthen the body's immune system response. Some examples of senior-friendly, nature-based physical activities are tai chi, brisk walking, and gardening.
Seniors should also focus on a healthy, well-balanced diet packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. At Campbell Place Assisted Living, our residents enjoy such meals prepared by our talented chefs daily.
The annual flu vaccine for seniors can lower the risk of developing influenza. It can also help minimize the severity of symptoms and the likelihood of dangerous complications.
Campbell Place Assisted Living, our senior living community in Bellefontaine, OH, encourages the use of flu vaccines for healthy aging. We also provide high-quality personal care, including personal hygiene assistance and housekeeping. Our many amenities, from health and wellness programming to chef-prepared nutritious meals, also help our senior residents stay on track with their healthy, graceful aging goals.
So, if you're looking to transition to a Bellefontaine senior living community, consider Campbell Place Assisted Living. Call us today to coordinate a tour!