Vaccinations for the elderly: why it matters

In the elderly, vaccines provide a boost to help the body fight off infections more effectively. — Filepic
Fifteen percent of Malaysia's population will be aged 60 and above by 2030 – and that's only five years from now!
As our country moves towards becoming an ageing society, protecting the health of older adults is more critical than ever.
'One of the most effective tools for preventing serious illnesses and hospitalisation in this growing demographic is vaccination.
'Yet, the awareness about elderly immunisation remains low and misinformation continue to deter many seniors and their caregivers from taking advantage of recommended vaccines,' says consultant geriatrician Dr Chin Ai-Vyrn.
He dispels the following myths: Myth 1: Vaccines are only for children
Fact: While childhood vaccination is crucial, immunity can diminish with age, and the elderly face unique risks from infectious diseases.
Vaccines such as influenza, pneumococcal, shingles, Respiratory Syncytial Virus and Covid-19 are specifically recommended for older adults because they help reduce the risk and severity of these diseases. Myth 2: Vaccines burden your natural immune system
Fact: Vaccines do not overwhelm or weaken the immune system.
In fact, they strengthen it by training it to recognise and fight specific pathogens.
The immune system is capable of handling thousands of foreign substances at once, and the small number of antigens in vaccines is negligible compared to what we encounter daily.
For older adults, whose immune responses decline with age, vaccines provide a crucial boost to help the body respond more effectively to real infections. Myth 3: Vaccines cause serious side effects in older adults
Fact: Most vaccines recommended for seniors have been extensively tested for safety.
The majority of side effects are mild and temporary – such as soreness at the injection site or low-grade fever.
Serious adverse reactions are extremely rare.
The protection vaccines offer against serious illness is far greater than the small chance of side effects.
However, if you are allergic to components of a vaccine, discuss this with your doctor before getting vaccinated. Myth 4: I had the vaccine before – so I'm still protected
Fact: Some vaccines require boosters over time because immunity can wane.
For example, annual influenza vaccines are needed due to changing virus strains.
Staying up to date with vaccinations is essential to ensure continued protection. Myth 5: Vaccines might interact negatively with certain medications
Fact: It's understandable for elderly patients – many of whom take multiple medications – to be concerned about potential interactions.
However, vaccines are rigorously tested and monitored for safety in populations that include older adults with common chronic conditions.
In general, vaccines do not interfere with most medications, including those for blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol.
Healthcare providers carefully assess a patient's medical history before administering vaccines to ensure safety.
Consult your doctor before getting vaccinated if you are taking medications that suppress your immune system.
'Pneumonia is the leading cause of death in Malaysia, surpassing even cardiovascular diseases.
'It can often be triggered by infections such as influenza – showing just how important it is to take simple preventive steps – like getting vaccinated.
'Vaccines act like insurance for your future health, helping your natural immune system stay alert and prepared to fight off serious infections,' says Dr Chin.
But vaccination is just one part of staying healthy as we age.
He adds: 'A well-rounded lifestyle – including regular exercise, a balanced diet, quality sleep, stress management, avoiding smoking, limiting or avoiding alcohol, practicing good personal hygiene and reducing exposure to infections – also plays a critical role in maintaining our immune system while reducing reducing morbidity and mortality.'

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