Dr. Ghe Rosales-Vong, Guest columnist
As we age, our health priorities naturally evolve. For older adults, prevention and maintaining overall wellness become increasingly important to enjoy a long, active and fulfilling life. Immunizations, a cornerstone of public health, take on renewed significance as the immune system gradually weakens with age. Vaccines are a cornerstone of public health, and staying up to date on recommended vaccines not only safeguards your own health but also protects your family, friends, and community from serious illness.
Many people think of vaccines as something for children, but immunizations remain essential throughout life.
As we grow older, our immune system gradually becomes less effective at fighting infections. This increases the risk of complications from illnesses that might have been milder in younger years. V
accines act as a shield, preparing the body to defend against serious conditions such as influenza, shingles, and pertussis (whooping cough), and reducing the likelihood of severe outcomes that could result in hospitalization, long-term complications, or even death.
Shingles is one of the most common vaccine-preventable conditions affecting older adults. Caused by the reactivation of the chickenpox virus, shingles can result in a painful rash and, in some cases, long-lasting nerve pain known as postherpetic neuralgia.
Older adults are particularly vulnerable, with the risk increasing significantly after age 50. Vaccination is highly effective, reducing the risk of developing shingles by up to 90%. For those who do develop the condition despite vaccination, symptoms are typically milder, and the risk of complications is substantially lower.
Protecting yourself with a shingles vaccine not only preserves your own health and comfort but also helps ensure you can remain active and engaged with family and loved ones.
Influenza, or the flu, may seem like a routine seasonal illness, but for older adults, it can pose serious health risks.
Complications such as pneumonia, heart attacks, strokes, and hospitalization are more common among seniors. To address this, high-dose flu vaccines have been developed specifically for adults 65 and older. These vaccines contain four times the antigens of a standard flu shot, helping the immune system produce a stronger protective response. Getting vaccinated each year is not only about protecting yourself — it’s also about reducing the risk of spreading the flu to your children, grandchildren, or other loved ones who may be more vulnerable.
Pertussis (whooping cough) is often thought of as a childhood disease, but adults, including seniors, remain at risk.
Pertussis can cause prolonged coughing spells, difficulty breathing, and secondary infections, which can be particularly dangerous for those with underlying health conditions. Adults should receive a Tdap booster at least once in adulthood and keep up with additional doses as recommended. Staying current with pertussis vaccination is an important step in protecting family members, including infants or grandchildren who are too young to be fully vaccinated.
Maintaining immunizations is not just about preventing illness—it is about preserving quality of life. Older adults who stay current on vaccines are better able to enjoy daily activities, maintain independence, and participate in family, social, and community events without interruption from preventable diseases. By taking proactive steps to strengthen their immune systems, seniors can reduce the likelihood of severe illness and enjoy more active, vibrant lives.
Older adults are encouraged to review their immunization status regularly with their primary care provider. Staying current on vaccines for shingles, influenza, pertussis, and other preventable illnesses strengthens the body’s defenses, reduces the risk of serious health complications, and helps maintain overall wellness. By prioritizing these preventative measures, older adults can enjoy greater peace of mind and a higher quality of life.
Dr. Ghe Rosales-Vong is a dedicated family medicine physician at MemorialCare Medical Group in Westminster. Passionate about providing comprehensive care, he enjoys the diversity of family medicine — treating patients from newborns to seniors, managing chronic conditions and offering preventive services. Rosales-Vong earned his medical degree from the University of Minnesota in 2014 and completed his family medicine residency at UC Irvine, with a focus on medical education for the Latino community. To make an appointment, call 877-696-3622 or visit memorialcare.org.