What Older Adults Need to Know About Vaccines for a Healthy New Year

(Family Features) Around the new year, many people set goals for better health. People ages 65 and older can kick off a healthy new year by getting vaccinated for flu, COVID-19 and RSV. These respiratory infections can become more dangerous as people age. Vaccines can help older people risk less severe illness and do more of what they enjoy. Those who provide care for older adults can support their health by helping them get vaccinated now. That’s especially important because older people have a higher risk of getting very sick or even dying from flu, COVID-19 and RSV. Vaccines help protect older adults from serious illness As people get older, their ability to fight off infection decreases, putting them at higher risk for complications if they get a respiratory infection. They are more likely to get severely ill and need medical or hospital care from flu, COVID-19 and RSV. Those living in long-term care facilities often have health issues that make flu, COVID-19 and RSV serious risks. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) urges all people ages 6 months and older to get this season’s flu and COVID-19 vaccines. Those ages 75 and older – or ages 60 and older with certain health issues or who live in a nursing home – should get one dose of an RSV vaccine if they haven’t had it before. It’s safe to get vaccines for flu and COVID-19 (and RSV, for those who are eligible) all at the same time. Any side effects from the vaccines are usually mild and go away on their own in a few days. Get vaccinated for a healthy new year Vaccines are a great way for older people to start the year by protecting their health. Most deaths from flu, COVID-19 and RSV are in people ages 65 and older, and the risk grows with age. However, vaccines cut your risk of being in the hospital for flu or COVID-19 by about half and for RSV by about 70%, according to the CDC. Those who look after older loved ones can help them avoid severe respiratory illness by helping them get vaccinated. In addition to getting vaccinated, there are other ways to help prevent serious illness. When around others indoors, use fans or open windows for better ventilation. Wearing a mask, using physical distancing and washing your hands often can also help. You can use home tests to check for COVID-19 if you have symptoms. Visit cdc.gov/RiskLessDoMore to learn more about flu, COVID-19 and RSV vaccines. Order your free COVID-19 test kits (up to four per household) at COVIDTests.gov. Talk with your doctor about which vaccines are right for you or an older adult you care for. Or go to vaccines.gov to get started and find a pharmacy near you.   Photo courtesy of Shutterstock