Pneumonia Vaccines for Seniors in Oklahoma City: What to Know
According to a study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, around 1 million seniors are hospitalized with pneumonia every year. This makes prevention even more important as we age.
Pneumonia vaccines for seniors can help reduce the risk of serious illness, especially for those living in Oklahoma City, a welcoming city known for its rich Western heritage, vibrant arts scene, and strong sense of community.
Let's look into the types of pneumonia vaccines available, when to get them, and how they support healthy aging in Oklahoma City.
Why Pneumonia Is More Dangerous for Older Adults
As we grow older, our immune systems don't work as well as they used to. That makes it harder for aging adults to fight off infections like pneumonia.
There are three primary reasons pneumonia becomes more serious with age:
- A weaker immune response
- Other chronic health conditions
- Slower recovery after illness
A Weaker Immune Response
The body's natural defenses often slow down with age. That means germs can spread faster and cause more harm before the body can respond. For pneumonia, this makes the infection more severe than it might be for younger people.
Other Chronic Health Conditions
Seniors often live with conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or COPD. They can make it harder to recover from infections or even recognize the signs of pneumonia early. The combination of illness and weak lungs or a weak heart can make things worse.
Slower Recovery After Illness
Healing takes longer in later years. What may be a few days of rest for a younger adult can turn into weeks for an older person. That recovery time can raise the chance of other problems like falls, weakness, or needing care at home.
Pneumonia Prevention in Aging Adults: Types of Vaccines
There are three primary types of pneumonia vaccines for seniors: PCV13, PCV20, and PPSV23. These names refer to the number of strains of bacteria each vaccine targets.
PCV13 and PCV20 are both conjugate vaccines, which help the body create a strong immune response. PPSV23 is a polysaccharide vaccine that adds more protection by covering extra strains not found in the others.
In many cases, doctors give a conjugate vaccine first, followed by PPSV23 about a year later. This layered approach offers broader coverage.
Each vaccine is approved for use in older adults and is part of the recommended immunizations seniors need as they age. Most people only need these shots once, although new guidance may suggest updates or changes over time.
Getting both types helps build strong protection, which is especially helpful for aging immune health. Your doctor can help decide which one is best based on your needs and any past vaccines you've had.
When and How Often Should Seniors Get Pneumonia Shots?
Timing matters when it comes to pneumonia vaccines. Older adults should follow the latest guidelines to know when to get vaccinated and whether they need one or both types of pneumonia shots.
A clear schedule helps prevent gaps in protection and keeps the immune system better prepared. Doctors can adjust timing based on age, health history, and what vaccines a person has already received.
Most seniors are advised to get a pneumococcal conjugate vaccine like PCV13 or PCV20 first. These vaccines cover several common strains of pneumonia-causing bacteria.
Follow-Up Shots
In many cases, a polysaccharide vaccine called PPSV23 follows, often one year later. This second shot helps add coverage for even more strains. The combination gives broader protection and can lower the chance of serious illness.
Some people may only need one type of vaccine, depending on past doses or changes in health. Doctors follow CDC guidelines and can update vaccine plans based on new research or revised advice.
Staying current with recommended immunizations seniors need is one of the easiest ways to stay ahead of preventable illness.
If you're unsure about your last vaccine, a quick check with your doctor or pharmacist can help clear things up. Pneumonia vaccines for seniors are often a one-time step, but timing and updates do matter.
Other Shots to Consider Alongside Pneumonia Vaccines for Seniors
Pneumonia is just one of several illnesses that can become more serious with age. Getting the right vaccines can help older adults stay out of the hospital and keep up with daily routines.
While the pneumonia vaccine is important, it works even better when paired with other recommended shots. These vaccines work together to support the health and safety of aging adults.
The flu shot is one that should not be skipped. It's given once a year and helps prevent seasonal flu, which can be very hard on the body, especially for those over 65.
Many doctors offer both the flu and pneumonia shots during the same visit. It makes it easier to stay protected during the months when illness spreads more quickly.
COVID-19 is still a concern for older adults. Getting a COVID-19 vaccine or booster, based on your doctor's advice, adds another layer of protection. These vaccines are updated from time to time to fight new strains. Seniors should ask their doctors if they're due for one.
Some adults may also benefit from other shots, like the shingles or Tdap vaccines, depending on their medical history. But the focus during cold and flu season is often on flu and pneumonia shots. These are the ones most likely to prevent serious illness in the short term.
Senior Vaccines in OKC
Pneumonia vaccines for seniors play a key role in protecting long-term health. They help prevent serious illness and support stronger immune health with age. In Oklahoma City, access to these vaccines is easy and reliable. Staying up to date can lead to fewer complications and more active, worry-free living.
At Morada Southridge in Oklahoma City, we provide assisted living with a balance of personal support and independence in a warm, pet-friendly setting. Our team creates care plans tailored to each resident. With activities like Tai Chi and book club, we help residents stay active, connected, and engaged.
Get in touch today to find out how we can help with your loved one's later years.