Fall is a favorite season for many of us, for good reason: the bright, vibrant colors of changing leaves, and refreshing, cooler temperatures. Unfortunately, however, it also indicates the start of flu season. As discussed in our previous blog, seniors are at an especially great risk of complications from the flu and pneumonia, making proper vaccinations imperative.
Thankfully, flu and pneumonia vaccinations do make a difference in preventing or at least reducing the severity of these diseases, and are becoming more and more accessible. In most states, immunizations for adults can be administered by pharmacists in a community pharmacy, making immunizations much more convenient than having to make a doctor's appointment.
The flu vaccine can be as much as 70 to 90 percent effective for healthy seniors; and according to the National Network for Immunization Information, hospital patients who have received the pneumonia vaccine:
- Have a lower incidence of respiratory failure
- Have a lower incidence of kidney failure
- Have a lower incidence of heart attack
- Spend two fewer days in the hospital on average
- And are 40 to 70 percent less likely to die from complications from pneumococcal bacteremia than unvaccinated patients
At Independence-4-Seniors, our goal is to provide seniors in the Chicago area with extraordinary care at home to improve their wellbeing and quality of life. The benefits of home care are tremendous, including the ability to heal more quickly and comfortably than in a hospital or nursing home. Contact us at 630-323-4665 to find out how we can help keep your senior loved one safe, healthy and happy at home.