Recommended Vaccines for Seniors in Fort Pierce, FL

When you are young, you might get over a cold or flu without much issue. But as you get older, especially beyond your 60s, you might notice your immune system isn't as powerful as it used to be. This makes you more vulnerable to certain diseases and complications. 

For seniors living in Fort Pierce, FL, a city known for its warm climate, active retiree community, and outdoor lifestyle, staying up to date with recommended vaccines for seniors is an important part of preventive healthcare. Vaccinations not only help protect individuals but also reduce the spread of illness among friends, family, and neighbors.

This article includes a senior immunization checklist, when to get these recommended vaccines, and why they're essential for maintaining good health in the golden years.

Why Vaccines Are Especially Important for Seniors

Aging affects the immune system, a process known as immunosenescence, according to Signal Transduction and Targeted Therapy. This means seniors are more likely to contract infections, and those infections can be more severe. For example, the flu can lead to pneumonia or hospitalization, and shingles can result in chronic nerve pain.

In addition, many seniors have chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or respiratory issues, which can make infections more dangerous. Vaccines are a proven and effective way to reduce the risk of illness, complications, and even death.

1. Influenza (Flu) Vaccine

When to Get It: Annually, preferably in early fall (September or October).

The flu vaccine is one of the most important annual vaccines for seniors. Influenza viruses circulate most actively in the fall and winter months. In Fort Pierce, where winter temperatures are milder, it's easy to overlook the threat, but flu season still arrives each year.

The CDC recommends a high-dose or adjuvanted flu vaccine for people 65 and older. These versions are specifically designed to create a stronger immune response. Getting the flu shot each year helps prevent severe illness, hospitalization, and death.

2. COVID-19 Vaccine and Boosters

When to Get It: As recommended by the CDC and local health departments.

COVID-19 has had a disproportionate impact on older adults. Fortunately, vaccines and boosters have greatly reduced the risk of serious illness and hospitalization. Seniors should receive the initial COVID-19 vaccine series if they haven't already, followed by regular booster doses depending on current CDC guidelines.

In Fort Pierce, local pharmacies and clinics offer free or low-cost COVID-19 shots. Check with your doctor or the Florida Department of Health for the most current booster recommendations.

3. Pneumococcal Vaccine

When to Get It: Once after age 65, with follow-up depending on medical history.

Pneumococcal disease can cause pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections, all of which can be life-threatening for older adults. Tens of thousands of people die in the US of pneumonia every year, and most of them are adults over the age of 65, according to the American Lung Association.

The CDC recommends one dose of PCV20 or a series of PCV15 followed by PPSV23, depending on your health status and vaccine history.

If you have chronic health conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or lung disease, it's especially important to get protected. Pneumococcal vaccines are often administered during a routine check-up or hospital discharge.

4. Shingles (Herpes Zoster) Vaccine

When to Get It: Two-dose series starting at age 50, spaced 2 to 6 months apart.

Shingles is caused by the reactivation of the chickenpox virus (varicella zoster) and can lead to a painful, blistering rash. Seniors are at higher risk, and complications can include long-lasting nerve pain called postherpetic neuralgia.

The Shingrix vaccine is the current standard for shingles prevention. It is highly effective and remains the recommended choice for older adults, even if you previously had the older Zostavax vaccine or have had shingles before.

5. Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis (Tdap or Td)

When to Get It: One-time Tdap dose, then a Td booster every 10 years.

Tetanus and diphtheria are rare but serious infections. Pertussis, or whooping cough, can be dangerous for seniors and for infants they may come into contact with. A Tdap vaccine is recommended once in adulthood, followed by Td boosters every 10 years.

If you're caring for grandchildren or volunteering in the community, updating your Tdap vaccine also helps protect the vulnerable from pertussis outbreaks.

6. Hepatitis B Vaccine

When to Get It: Based on individual risk factors; a three-dose series.

Hepatitis B is a liver infection that can become chronic and lead to serious health issues. The CDC recommends hepatitis B vaccination for adults 60 and older with risk factors such as diabetes, liver disease, or exposure through caregiving. Even if you don't fall into a high-risk group, you may consider getting vaccinated as a preventive measure, especially in group-living situations.

Accessing Recommended Vaccines for Seniors in Fort Pierce, FL

Beyond following preventative health tips, vaccines are a great way for seniors to stay healthy. There are several convenient options for seniors in Fort Pierce to follow the adult vaccination schedule: 

• Primary care doctors: Most can administer flu and shingles vaccines during annual check-ups or wellness visits.
• Local pharmacies: Like CVS, Walgreens, and Publix often provide walk-in vaccinations for flu, shingles, COVID-19, and more.
• St. Lucie County Health Department: Offers immunization clinics and health outreach events tailored for older adults.
• Senior centers and community health events: Keep an eye out for vaccine drives or informational sessions and memory care wellness at local community hubs like the Council on Aging of St. Lucie, Fort Pierce Community Center, or senior living communities.

Always bring your Medicare or insurance card to see if you qualify for free or low-cost vaccinations. Most vaccines recommended for seniors are covered by Medicare Part B or Part D.

Follow our Senior Immunization Checklist

If our list of recommended vaccines for seniors seems like a lot to take care of, it's time for you to consider a senior living community like The Lynmoore at Lawnwood to take some of the burden of caregiving off your shoulders. 

We have exclusive programs to ensure our residents have a calendar filled with robust events and activities, chef-prepared meals, and on-site health and wellness programs. Schedule a tour of our community to see if this feels like a fit for your needs.