Recommended Vaccines for Seniors in Escanaba, Michigan
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According to the CDC, the risk of death from COVID-19 among adults aged 75 to 84 years old is about 140 times higher than for adults aged 18-29. Seniors face many health risks, but taking certain precautions can help them stay safer and healthier.
There are various recommended vaccines for seniors, and understanding what these are can help you avoid some serious diseases. Escanaba, Michigan, has some key benefits, such as access to parks and recreation, a relatively affordable cost of living, and a welcoming atmosphere for families and retirees. However, none of these can protect you from harmful diseases, so taking the right precautions is essential.
In this senior immunization guide, we'll go over some key adult vaccines in Michigan that are recommended for older adults. Keep reading to learn more.
Recommended Vaccines for Seniors
The importance of preventive care for seniors cannot be overstated. Vaccines can help protect older adults from potentially harmful diseases, and as these diseases typically hit seniors harder, taking the right steps to protect yourself is essential.
Seasonal Influenza (Flu) Vaccine
Every year, the flu poses a risk to everyone, but particularly older adults. The CDC recommends that all adults aged 50 or over receive an annual flu vaccination. This is even more important for those over 65 who benefit most from high-dose or adjuvanted formulations that boost immunity.
The flu is quite common, and many people underestimate how serious it can be. Seniors aged 65 and over account for about 85% of deaths and 70% of hospitalizations due to the flu (according to Families Fighting Flu). As such, it's crucial for seniors to get this vaccine each year, especially if they have underlying health conditions.
COVID-19 Vaccination (2024-2025 Formulation)
The COVID-19 vaccine has been in the limelight since the pandemic started. Suggestions have changed somewhat in the last few years, with the latest recommendations being that everyone who is eligible for the vaccine should receive at least two doses (spaced six months apart) for the 2024-2025 variant.
Boosters reduce the risk of:
- Severe illness
- Hospitalization
- Long COVID
- Mortality
New variants can circulate, and immunity wanes over time, making boosters vital.
Pneumococcal Vaccines
As of 2025, the CDC recommends pneumococcal vaccination for all adults aged 50+ (this is a reduction from the previous 65+ benchmark). Those who are unvaccinated or are uncertain about their past vaccinations should speak to their healthcare providers.
Pneumococcal bacteria can cause several serious illnesses, including:
- Pneumonia
- Meningitis
- Bloodstream Infections
These can be life-threatening in some situations, so they shouldn't be taken lightly. Conjugate vaccines (PCV15, PCV20, and PCV21) offer broad serotype coverage and are given first. In some cases, a follow-up dose of PPSV23 is also given.
Shingles Vaccine (Zoster Recombinant)
Shingrix is given in two doses spaced two to six months apart, and is recommended for adults aged 50+. Older adults should get this vaccine even if they have had shingles or chickenpox in the past.
Shingles typically isn't life-threatening, but it can be extremely painful. The Shingrix vaccine is highly effective at preventing shingles and the painful complication that comes with it (postherpetic neuralgia).
RSV Vaccine (Respiratory Syncytial Virus)
People often think of RSV as an illness that only affects children, but it can pose a serious threat to older adults. The vaccine is recommended for anyone aged 75+, as well as people aged 50-74 with increased health risk due to conditions such as:
- Heart/lung disease
- kidney failure
- Diabetes
- Immunosuppression
It's also recommended for seniors living in long-term care communities. As it stands, uptake from people in these groups is relatively low, but further education should help more people understand the importance of this vaccine.
Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis (Tdap or Td)
Any adults who haven't been previously vaccinated should receive at least one dose of Tdap. After this, they should get a Tdap or Td booster once every 10 years.
This is particularly important for older adults who are often around infants. If you have grandchildren who visit you, this is a key vaccination to get.
Hepatitis B Vaccine
The Hepatitis B vaccine is mostly recommended for younger adults (19-59). However, it can still pose a risk to seniors, so it's worth considering. It's particularly important for those with chronic conditions, such as:
- Kidney disease
- Diabetes
- Immunocompromise
It's available in a two, three, or four-dose series. The schedule you follow will depend on the specific product.
Other Vaccinations
Flu and pneumonia shots are crucial, but there are several others you may also want to think about getting. Some examples include:
- MMR
- Varicella
- HPV
You may only need these if you have incomplete vaccination records or specific health histories. If you're not sure, speak to your healthcare provider. They'll be able to offer relevant aging wellness tips for vaccinations and anything else.
Why It Matters for Escabana Residents
LakeHouse Escanaba is a senior living community that's dedicated to providing a safe, healthy environment for all of our residents. Immunity is a key part of this, and each resident who is vaccinated is protecting not only themselves, but everyone around them. Most of our residents are aged 65+, and many have health conditions that can put them at greater risk, including:
- Heart disease
- Diabetes
- Respiratory issues
The vaccines above (as well as others) can help us maintain a healthier environment, keeping our residents, staff, and visitors safe.
Always talk to your healthcare provider about vaccinations before getting them to ensure you are making the best choices. It's a good idea to keep a vaccination record. This will help you keep track of what you've had and what you need.
At LakeHouse Escanaba, we're always working to make sure our community is safe for everyone. We encourage vaccinations where suitable and do what we can to promote health and wellness.
This includes organizing social activities, fitness classes, and more. Our restaurant-style dining also gives residents access to healthy, nutritious meals.
Your Senior Years
These recommended vaccines for seniors can help protect you from potentially life-threatening diseases, so you shouldn't ignore them. Your healthcare provider can give you the best advice to stay safe and healthy.
Living in a suitable environment will help you make the most out of your senior years. LakeHouse Escanaba offers a warm, welcoming community with comfortable housing, high-quality amenities, and personalized care services.
Contact us now to schedule a tour of our community.