Yes, immunization can help seniors maintain an active and independent lifestyle by reducing the risk of infectious diseases and their associated complications. Here are some statistics and references supporting this:
Impact on Influenza
Influenza vaccination has been shown to significantly reduce the risk of flu-related hospitalizations and deaths among older adults. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), during the 2019-2020 flu season, influenza vaccination prevented an estimated 7.5 million illnesses, 3.7 million medical visits, 105,000 hospitalizations, and 6,300 deaths among adults aged 65 years and older in the United States alone.
Pneumococcal Vaccination
Pneumococcal vaccination helps protect against pneumococcal diseases, including pneumonia, bacteremia, and meningitis. A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that pneumococcal vaccination was associated with a significant reduction in the risk of community-acquired pneumonia hospitalizations among older adults.
Shingles Vaccine
The shingles vaccine (recombinant zoster vaccine) helps prevent shingles; a painful rash caused by the varicella-zoster virus. Clinical trials have demonstrated that the shingles vaccine is effective in reducing the risk of shingles and postherpetic neuralgia (nerve pain) in older adults.
Maintaining Independence
By preventing infectious diseases and their complications, immunization helps seniors stay healthy and active, reducing the risk of hospitalizations and long-term care needs. This, in turn, enables seniors to maintain their independence and continue engaging in activities they enjoy.
References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2021). Flu Vaccination Coverage, United States, 2019–20 Influenza Season. https://www.cdc.gov/flu/fluvaxview/coverage-1920estimates.htm
Bonten, M. J., Huijts, S. M., Bolkenbaas, M., Webber, C., Patterson, S., Gault, S., … & van der Ende, A. (2015). Polysaccharide conjugate vaccine against pneumococcal pneumonia in adults. New England Journal of Medicine, 372(12), 1114-1125.
