Three Vaccines Your Parents Need to Protect Their Health
When you have kids, it’s easy to keep up with vaccines they need. When you’re an adult, you might not stay proactive. Some illnesses can be easily prevented or made less severe by getting vaccinations when you’re older.
Here are three vaccines your parents need to protect their health.
Elder Care Westfield NJ – Three Vaccines Your Parents Need to Protect Their Health
Flu Shots
Each year, your parent needs to get a flu shot. After the age of 65, men and women are at greater risk of developing serious health issues if they get the flu. Pneumonia is one of the most prevalent. According to the CDC, as many of 7 out of 10 flu-related hospitalizations are of people over the age of 64. About 80 percent of flu-related deaths are people 65 or older.
The flu shot is a quick and easy one. Your parent doesn’t even have to go to the doctor. There are clinics held at senior centers, stores, and pharmacies. Insurance usually pays for the flu shot, even if you get it in a location outside your doctor’s office.
Shingles
Anyone who had the chickenpox as a child is at risk of shingles later in life. Doctors urge people to get the shingles vaccine around the age of 60. Some suggest getting it in when you’re in your 50’s.
Singles is a returning form of varicella zoster virus. When you have chickenpox, it presents as a rash that itches. In shingles, there can be a rash and fever. It often attacks the nerves and causes tremendous pain in the area where the rash presented.
If postherpetic neuralgia occurs, it can be so painful that your parent doesn’t want to move. It can also last for several weeks. The shingles vaccine can lessen the chances of getting shingles or reduce the severity of the symptoms.
Pneumococcal
The pneumococcal vaccine is recommended for anyone 65 or older. It’s also recommended for those under the age of 65 if certain chronic health conditions are present. The vaccine prevents against certain infections like pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections. It can also help prevent certain ear and sinus infections.
Make sure your parent’s vaccinations are current. If they need a vaccine, a trip to the doctor or pharmacist can help them get caught up.
Keep up with medical appointments and vaccinations by enlisting the help of an elder care professional. Elder care providers can drive your parents to appointments and local businesses. They can also schedule appointments for your parents. Call our elder care agency to learn more about these and other helpful elder care services.
Sources: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/pdf/freeresources/seniors/seniors-vaccination-factsheet.pdf
https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/schedules/downloads/adult/adult-schedule-easy-read.pdf
If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring professional Elder Care Services in Westfield NJ, please talk to the caring staff at Generations Home Health Care today. Providing Home Care in Somerset, Essex, Union, Morris and Hunterdon Counties. Call us today at (908) 290-0691 or (973) 241-4534.
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