Helpful Advice from the Team at Wesley Enhanced Living

As children, most of us went through a regimen of shots to protect us from various childhood diseases. As you grow into adulthood, your body can ward off many illnesses because of these vaccines. Upon reaching the age of 50, you may notice that you do not recover as quickly as in your younger years. The senior population, like children, become very susceptible to complications from preventable diseases. Protect yourself from unnecessary suffering by staying up to date with your vaccines, including getting an annual flu shot.

The team at Wesley Enhanced Living retirement communities understands the importance of preventing sickness through regular vaccinations. We encourage our residents to embrace a healthy lifestyle on all levels, including nutritious meals, social connections, and life enrichment opportunities. 

5 Vaccines You Should Consider for Maintaining Your Health

Vaccines helped cure many childhood diseases, but the effects do not last forever. It would be best if you had regular boosters over the course of your life. As a senior, you can start with these:

  1. Influenza Vaccine: Each year, the flu takes down many seniors over the age of 65. Older adults are at a higher risk of developing complications, including pneumonia and even death. Ideally, you will want to get your shot a little earlier than when flu season begins so that your body can build up the resistance. You might feel the effects for a couple of days, but it will be worth it.
  2. Pneumococcal Vaccine: Not many people know this, but with pneumonia, you are at risk of meningitis or a bloodstream infection. If you smoke or have other health problems, this vaccine may help. Generally, you only need to have this shot once.
  3. Herpes Zoster (Shingles) Vaccine: Shingles can be excruciating, and it all started from having childhood chicken pox. The virus lives in your nerve endings and becomes reactivated. If you develop post-herpetic neuralgia, the pain can last for months. Reduce the risk by getting the vaccine.
  4. MMR Vaccine: Remember having the measles? Those painful little red spots that dotted your body could have been prevented with the measles, mumps, and rubella shot. If you were born before 1956, you might want to talk to your doctor about having one.
  5. Tdap Vaccine: For protection against whooping cough, diphtheria, and pertussis, talk with your doctor about the Tdap vaccine. Older adults who come down with any of these can easily pass it on to their infant grandchildren.

Boost Your Immunity with Updated Vaccines and Wesley Enhanced Living’s Help

Talk with your doctor about updating your vaccines to boost your immunity. The staff at Wesley Enhanced Living can help with getting you to your healthcare provider’s office. Our seniors enjoy independent living, personal care, as well as other levels of assistance. Protect your Golden Years and embrace life with us!

Wesley Enhanced Living provides high-quality senior retirement communities for you or your loved ones.  Contact one of our Philadelphia area locations and find out why our seniors love where they live. Our staff is happy to discuss your elder’s needs or your own, give you a tour and inform you of our range of services.