Promoting Healthy Lifestyles

Rates of serious illness and death from influenza are highest among people 65 and older because many have medical conditions that place them at increased risk for complications. Influenza, or the flu, is often worse than a cold because it is a contagious infection that could lead to pneumonia. While colds last two to seven days with a sore throat, runny nose, and cough, the flu often includes cold symptoms in addition to a fever, headache, and muscle aches.

To avoid getting the flu and the health complications that can result, the CDC recommends that people 50 and older and their caregivers or other family members get a flu shot each year. Studies have shown that the flu shot reduces hospitalization by about 70 % and death by about 85 % among older people who are not in nursing homes. Among nursing home residents, the flu shot reduces the risk of hospitalization by about 50%, the risk of pneumonia by about 60%, and the risk of death by 75 to 80%.

The CDC also recommends that people 65 and older get vaccinated against pneumococcal pneumonia. This shot may be given simultaneously with the flu shot.

For more information on the flu shot and other vaccinations for adults, please visit:

• What Vaccines Do You Need?
  – CDC – A quick quiz to help you determine which vaccinations you might need. (Off site)
  
  
• Flu Shot Locator – American Lung Association – Information about how to find a Flu Shot clinic in your area. (Off site)
  
• CDC: Healthy Aging for Adults – Information on vaccinations and other health issues that affect older adults.

• CMS Medicare Preventive Services: Influenza/Pneumococcal Campaign – Information on the types of vaccinations covered by Medicare.

• Adult Vaccination Screening Form – CDC – A printable form that you can take with you to your doctor to help keep track of which vaccinations you need.

• Adult Immunization Schedule – CDC – A schedule of the types of immunizations CDC recommends for adults of different ages and with various health problems.

• Shots for Safety – National Institute on Aging – Information on various vaccines for adults. (Off site)

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