August is National Immunization Awareness Month. You might be surprised to learn there are vaccinations recommended for adults that never used to be. This could mean you and your dad are not caught up. Have you considered what immunizations are due for both of you? Here are a few common immunizations and how in-home care can help get your senior ensure they get what they need.
COVID and Influenza
Older adults should get the flu shot each year. October is a good target date for that shot as immunities have time to build up before peak flu season hits around the holidays.
For the COVID vaccine, you start with the initial two or three doses, depending on the maker, and then get at least one booster. Your doctor will advise you on how many boosters you should have. It often comes down to your age or if you have chronic health conditions.
Hepatitis A and B
Hepatitis B vaccinations have been given to children for a long time, but older adults have just started getting this vaccination recommended to them if they are under the age of 60. It’s especially important if there is a higher risk of liver damage from chronic diseases or blood contact with someone who has hep B.
Hepatitis A vaccinations are recommended for healthcare workers and older adults with chronic health conditions like liver disease. Given the recent outbreak of hep A in frozen strawberries, you and your mom should see if it’s worthwhile, especially if you use strawberries regularly.
Measles, Mumps, and Rubella
Likely, you’ve already had MMR. It was given as a childhood immunization to anyone born after 1956.
Pneumococcal and Meningococcal
After the age of 65, pneumococcal vaccination is advised. It protects against pneumonia and meningitis. If you have certain chronic health conditions, you may be advised to get it before the age of 65.
There are two different meningococcal vaccine series. They’re typically given to adults with a higher risk of contracting meningitis.
Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis
The TDAP vaccination is given every ten years. It protects against tetanus (lockjaw), diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough).
Varicella (Chickenpox)
Most older adults didn’t get the chickenpox vaccine, as many contracted it in kids. The two-dose series is recommended to anyone born in 1980 or after. Older adults who never had chickenpox should talk to their doctor about getting it.
Zoster Recombinant
The Herpes-Zoster vaccine helps people who have had chicken pox avoid severe forms of shingles. After you have chicken pox, the virus remains dormant in your bloodstream. If it returns later in life, it can cause severe nerve pain as shingles. People 50 and older are advised to get it.
Schedule Respite Care While You Get Caught Up
Whether you find you are missing some vaccinations or your mom is, make appointments at a local pharmacy or doctor’s office and get caught up. If you need a few days off to do this, arrange in-home care services to stay with her while you’re getting the vaccinations you need.
Many vaccinations will cause minor side effects like pain at the injection site, stiff muscles and joints, and a general loss of energy. Let in-home care aides help your mom while you take a few days off until you’re feeling better.
If you or an aging loved one are considering in-home care in Plymouth, NC, please contact the caring staff at East Carolina Home Care today. Call (252) 335-1409.
Providing quality home care for seniors and families in and around Canton, Edenton, Ahoskie, South Mills, Moyock, Windsor, Plymouth, Manteo, Kill Devil Hills and Elizabeth City in North Carolina.
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