As a young, healthy person, the flu isn’t fun, but the chances of it causing hospitalization, or worse isn’t very high. For seniors, there is much more risk. Seniors are particularly susceptible to the flu. Besides being more vulnerable to catching it, the effects can be amplified. Hospitalizations and even deaths can be prevented with a flu shot. Here’s why seniors should get a flu shot even though they might ‘not believe in it.’
1) Maintain Health
The CDC is using flyers that show seniors and a quote, “My health is my biggest asset.” It’s true. Once you’ve been seriously sick or spent time in a hospital, you’d probably be willing to do something that could provide a better defense. The flu shot can’t defend against everything, but it does defend against a few important viral strains that can mean the difference between going to the hospital or staying warm at home with friends and family.
Catching the flu can result in a cascade of health complications. The vaccine can stop the problem before it even starts.
2) Prevent the Spread
Children are also susceptible to flu, just like seniors. When seniors get vaccinated, they are defending themselves and their families from contracting the flu. Vaccinations prevent flu from being transmitted in the first place. So, even if seniors aren’t afraid of the flu, or they think it’s useless, they probably don’t want to be responsible for their friends or grandchildren getting sick.
Regardless of what people think of the efficacy of flu shots or vaccinations, receiving one is worth the effort. Our seniors should take every necessary measure to maintain their health so they can continue to live with a high quality of life. As caregivers, we are required to get vaccinations every flu season to prevent the transmission to our clients and we recommend they also take preventative measures.
