Immunization Awareness Month is held every August to highlight the importance of vaccination for people of all ages. At Addington Place of Prairie Village, we use this time to focus on the specific needs of older adults.
Our community in Prairie Village, located halfway between St. Louis and Oklahoma City, offers a safe and welcoming environment where senior health comes first. As people age, vaccines play a key role in preventing serious illness and avoiding hospital visits.
In this blog post, we will explain why staying current with senior vaccines KS matters, which shots are recommended, and how we support residents in keeping up to date. We will also share tips for families who want to stay involved in their loved ones' care.
As we grow older, our immune systems naturally weaken, making it harder to fight off infections. This puts seniors at greater risk for complications from common illnesses such as:
For older adults, even a mild illness can lead to serious outcomes like hospitalization, long recovery periods, or long-term health effects. That is why adult vaccinations are a key part of staying healthy later in life.
Vaccines are not just for children. Many are designed specifically to protect older adults from the diseases they are most vulnerable to. For example, the flu shot helps prevent seasonal influenza, which can be dangerous for seniors.
The shingles vaccine helps protect against a painful condition that becomes more common with age. Pneumonia and COVID-19 vaccines offer critical protection for the lungs and respiratory system.
Keeping up to date with adult vaccinations can lower the chances of severe illness, protect others in the community, and support a more active lifestyle. At Addington Place, we encourage all residents to talk with their doctor about vaccine options.
Several vaccines are recommended for older adults to help protect against serious illnesses. These vaccines are based on:
Staying current can reduce the risk of complications and support a stronger immune system. The flu shot is one of the most common vaccines for seniors and should be taken every year. Influenza spreads easily and can lead to severe symptoms in older adults.
The pneumonia vaccine is also important. Seniors may receive one or two types, depending on their needs: PCV15 and PPSV23. These help protect against lung infections and serious respiratory problems.
The shingles vaccine, known as Shingrix, is recommended for adults aged 50 and older. Shingles can cause lasting nerve pain, and this vaccine helps reduce the chance of an outbreak.
COVID-19 vaccines and boosters remain important for protecting against severe illness, especially as new variants emerge. Seniors should also ask about the Tdap vaccine, which protects against tetanus, diphtheria, and whooping cough.
Each person's needs are different, so speaking with a healthcare provider is the best way to create a personalized vaccine plan.
In Kansas, vaccines for adults are widely available across the state. Many local clinics, pharmacies, and medical offices offer recommended vaccines for seniors.
Large pharmacy chains such as CVS, Walgreens, Dillons, and Hy-Vee make it easy to schedule flu, pneumonia, shingles, or COVID-19 vaccinations. In many cases, appointments are not required.
The Kansas Department of Health and Environment offers helpful tools to find nearby vaccine locations, check eligibility, and learn about assistance programs. Most senior vaccines are covered by Medicare and many insurance plans, which makes access more affordable.
At Addington Place of Prairie Village, we work with residents to make sure they stay up to date with recommended vaccines. We help schedule appointments and provide reminders to make the process simple. Our staff is ready to provide answers and support whenever needed.
At Addington Place of Prairie Village, we take an active role in supporting the health and well-being of our residents. One way we do this is by promoting preventive health tips that include staying current with vaccines. Our staff works closely with each resident to create personalized health plans that include reminders for upcoming vaccinations.
We offer assistance with scheduling vaccine appointments at nearby clinics when needed. Our healthcare team is available to answer any questions residents or their families may have about vaccines or other health concerns.
Education is an important part of our approach. We provide easy-to-understand information on why vaccines matter and how they protect against illness.
By encouraging regular vaccinations and other preventive measures, we help residents maintain their independence and quality of life. Our community is committed to creating a safe and supportive environment for healthy aging in Prairie Village.
Family members play an important role in helping seniors stay healthy. One of the best ways to support loved ones is by encouraging them to keep up with their vaccines. Talking openly about the benefits of vaccines can help ease any concerns or fears they may have.
Attending vaccine appointments together shows support and helps seniors feel more comfortable. It also gives family members a chance to ask questions and learn about any side effects or follow-up care. Keeping a record of all vaccines received is useful for tracking when the next dose is due.
Families should also remind their loved ones to talk with their healthcare providers about which vaccines are recommended. Keeping informed about vaccination schedules helps everyone stay on the same page.
At Addington Place, we welcome family involvement and provide resources to make this process easier and more confident for everyone.
All in all, Immunization Awareness Month is a great reminder of the importance of vaccines for seniors. Staying up to date with recommended shots helps protect health and supports active living.
At Addington Place of Prairie Village, we provide senior wellness education and follow an aging immunization guide to keep our residents safe. Families and seniors are welcome to learn more about our approach to health and wellness.
Contact us and schedule a tour to see how our community supports healthy aging in Prairie Village and beyond.