The CDC reports that up to 70% of flu-related hospitalizations happen to adults aged 65 and older. That's a strong reminder of how important vaccines are in retirement. In Jacksonville, where year-round sunshine and a strong community lifestyle encourage staying active, protecting your health through immunizations helps you enjoy more of what matters.
This article highlights the vaccines recommended for seniors by providing a practical overview of what's needed and when. Whether you're taking day trips to St. Augustine or enjoying community events closer to home, the right vaccines can help you stay well. Use this guide as your personal senior vaccine checklist.
Flu season hits harder for adults over 65, especially those with chronic conditions like diabetes, asthma, or heart disease. The flu can lead to serious problems, including pneumonia and hospital stays. That's why the CDC recommends an annual flu shot for everyone in this age group, ideally by the end of October.
In Jacksonville, where fall brings more outdoor events and time with family, staying protected from seasonal viruses helps keep plans on track. Pharmacies such as CVS and Publix throughout Duval County offer senior-specific flu shots. These high-dose or adjuvanted vaccines are built to work better for older immune systems.
Getting a flu shot every year supports preventative care for aging, especially when paired with the shingles vaccine. Keeping up with flu and shingles vaccines is a priority for any solid senior vaccine checklist.
Older adults remain more likely to experience severe complications from COVID-19. Symptoms like shortness of breath, fever, and fatigue can worsen pre-existing conditions. Getting vaccinated (and staying up to date with new versions) is still a key part of any adult immunization guide.
The CDC recommends that all adults 65+ receive the most recent COVID-19 vaccine, especially heading into fall and winter.
Vaccination doesn't eliminate all risk, but it does lower the chance of hospitalization or long-term complications. Seniors living in group settings or attending regular social events may face higher exposure, so protection matters.
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) might sound like a childhood illness, but it can seriously affect older adults. RSV often spreads during the fall and winter and causes symptoms similar to a bad cold, but for seniors, it can lead to lung infections and hospitalization.
The CDC suggests that any adults over 74 and anyone at increased risk for severe RSV talk to a health provider about the RSV vaccine. Those with lung disease, weakened immune systems, or chronic conditions are more likely to benefit.
The RSV vaccine is typically a one-time shot. It's available at clinics and pharmacies, though it's best to get it before virus season begins. The vaccine may be especially helpful for those in shared housing or caregiving environments.
Pneumococcal disease causes serious infections, including pneumonia and blood infections. Adults over 50, especially those with chronic health problems, should be vaccinated to help prevent these illnesses. The CDC recommends either the PCV15 or PCV20 vaccine, depending on medical history.
Usually, one or two doses are given, with years of protection to follow. For example, PCV20 covers 20 strains of the bacteria that commonly cause pneumonia.
The vaccine plays an important role in reducing hospital visits and preventing complications from illnesses that are otherwise manageable. Adding it to your senior vaccine checklist means you're actively lowering health risks during cold and flu season.
Shingles affects nearly one in three people in the U.S. during their lifetime. The condition causes painful rashes and nerve pain that can last for months.
The shingles vaccine, Shingrix, is the best way to prevent it. Adults 50 and older should receive two doses, spaced two to six months apart.
Unlike the flu shot, the shingles vaccine is not seasonal. It can be given any time of year, and it's available at most local pharmacies throughout Jacksonville. For seniors managing memory issues at Discovery Village At Deerwood, this can be part of a routine outlined in their SHINE memory care health tips.
Tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough) are serious diseases that haven't gone away. The Tdap or Td booster protects against all three and should be renewed every 10 years. This vaccine is particularly important for seniors who garden, have frequent scrapes, or spend time with babies and small children.
In Jacksonville, most major pharmacies and family clinics offer these boosters. Unlike some vaccines that change seasonally, this one stays the same and is scheduled based on your personal immunization history. You might need it during your next checkup or before a planned surgery.
Keeping this shot current is one of those steps that tends to be forgotten but matters over time. It's part of a well-rounded adult immunization guide and complements other vaccines in your plan.
If you're planning to travel internationally, you'll need to review your vaccine record. Different countries have different requirements, and some destinations carry risks for diseases that aren't common in the U.S. That's why travel vaccines are part of smart planning, especially for older adults.
Talk to a healthcare provider or visit a travel medicine clinic at least four to six weeks before your trip. Your doctor may recommend vaccines based on your destination, activities, and health history.
For instance, you may need one or more of the following:
Even if your trip is months away, getting vaccinated early means you won't have to rush later. Travel vaccines are just one more way to support preventative care for aging, and they often get overlooked until the last minute.
The vaccines recommended for seniors are part of a well-rounded health plan that supports independence and daily wellness. They lower the risk of serious illness and help keep older adults active and connected to the life they enjoy.
At Discovery Village At Deerwood, residents benefit from chef-prepared dining, a senior-specific fitness center, SHINE® Memory Care, and a full calendar of social events, all within Jacksonville's Deerwood neighborhood. Our enclosed walking paths, Grande Clubhouse, and resort-style features support both comfort and peace of mind.
Contact us today to schedule your tour and explore what makes our community different.