Senior Care in Saratoga CA
Elderly adults are more susceptible to illnesses than younger generations. Simply sitting in a waiting room with someone who is sick could cause the elder to get the flu or pneumonia. Although these conditions do not sound serious, they can be life-threatening for elders with compromised immune systems.
In order to help older adults fight off viruses and illness-causing germs, immunizations are necessary. Getting immunizations will prevent your elderly loved one from having to be hospitalized due to a virus. No matter how old they are, there is still time to get the vaccines needed to allow these elders to live long, healthy lives. Consider having a senior care provider transport the elder to the doctor’s office for the following immunizations in order to give them the support and encouragement needed during these doctor visits and at home.
- Diphtheria and Tetanus. Also known as TDAP, this vaccine covers Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis in adults. Another name for Pertussis is whooping cough, which consists of a chronic cough that causes a wheezing sound. It may not be a threat to adults, but can be fatal to infants and children. If the elder spends time around small grandchildren, this is an important vaccine to get for the health of themselves and their family.
- Pneumococcal. This vaccine protects against pneumonia, which has caused numerous deaths among elderly adults. Seniors can still get the immunization, even if they received one in their childhood.
- Influenza. Each year, there is a new strain of influenza being spread. This vaccine is altered annually to prevent the latest form of flu that is being passed from one person to the next. The flu has caused deaths among many seniors, making this immunization an important one to get every year.
- Chicken pox and shingles. Older adults who have never had the chicken pox can develop serious complication if they develop it later in life. Getting the immunization now could save the elder’s life. This vaccine covers both chicken pox and shingles since shingles is commonly found in people who are over the age of 50.
- Other vaccines. Some health conditions may require additional vaccines in order to prevent certain viruses from making their health even worse. Some of these immunizations include ones for Meningitis, Hepatitis A and B, Measles, Mumps, and Rubella. Encourage your loved one to talk to their doctor about immunizations they should get.
Since seniors have weaker, more fragile immune systems, these vaccines will help them ward off any illnesses their bodies may be too weak to fight off.
Source:
http://www.insideeldercare.com/health/immunizations-for-senior-citizens/
If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring senior care in Saratoga, CA, please contact the caring staff at Home Helpers today (408) 259-5930.
