The salty breeze and sunny days in Myrtle Beach, SC, make it easy to focus on the good things in life, but staying healthy takes more than a walk by the ocean. Keeping up with the vaccines recommended for seniors is one of the most effective ways to stay well.
Families Fighting Flu, a non-profit organization concerned about protecting vulnerable populations, shared that older adults make up nearly 70% of flu-related hospitalizations each year. What a good reminder of how crucial it is to stay up-to-date on vaccinations, not only for the flu but for other illnesses that affect our senior population!
At TerraBella Myrtle Beach, residents receive personalized support with immunization guidance to make aging safer and life more enjoyable. Learn more in our adult immunization guide, where we break down the key vaccines seniors should know about to stay protected.
Why Vaccines Matter in Later Life
As people age, the immune system naturally weakens, making it harder to fight off infections. According to a study published in Microorganisms, older adults are particularly susceptible to infectious diseases, with respiratory infections ranking among the most common and severe.
Even minor illnesses can lead to complications. Some seniors experience pneumonia, prolonged recovery, or even hospitalization. Vaccination plays a vital role in protecting older adults, and staying current on recommended vaccines can help:
- Reduce hospital visits
- Prevent long-term health setbacks
- Lower the risk of complications from chronic conditions
- Support overall well-being
Seasonal Protection: Flu and Shingles Shots
With the tendency for respiratory illnesses and viral reactivations to rise with age, prevention is especially important during flu season. Two of the most common and preventable threats for older adults are influenza and shingles. Both can be managed with timely vaccination.
Flu Vaccine
Flu season hits harder for older adults, and the immune system’s slower response can lead to more serious complications. The American Academy of Family Physicians strongly recommends annual flu shots for seniors. High-dose or adjuvanted flu vaccines are specially designed to offer better protection for aging immune systems.
Shingles Vaccine
After a person recovers from chickenpox, the virus that caused it doesn’t leave the body; it stays hidden in the nerves. Years later, it can become active again and cause shingles, a condition marked by a painful skin rash and the potential for long-term nerve discomfort.
Healthcare providers usually advise adults 50 and older to get two doses of the shingles vaccine.
A Note on COVID-19
While attention around COVID-19 has shifted, updated vaccines are still recommended for adults 65 and older. It’s worth talking with a healthcare provider to decide what’s best for individual protection.
Protection Against Serious Respiratory Illnesses
Pneumonia and other respiratory infections remain a major concern as people age, which is why the next two vaccines are a key part of any well-rounded senior vaccine schedule. Both the pneumococcal and RSV vaccines support preventative care for seniors, helping reduce complications that can lead to hospitalization or extended recovery.
The CDC recommends that adults age 50 and older get the pneumococcal vaccine to protect against:
- Pneumonia
- Meningitis
- Bloodstream infections
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) can cause serious lung infections that lead to hospitalization. The American Medical Association highlights the importance of protecting older adults from RSV, especially those aged 75 and above. Younger seniors with higher health risks may also need the vaccine.
Booster Vaccines Recommended for Seniors
Some vaccines require a booster dose to remain effective. The Tdap or Td booster is one of the vaccines recommended for seniors, especially those who haven’t had a tetanus shot in the last 10 years. The vaccine protects against:
- Tetanus
- Diphtheria
- Pertussis
These three infections can cause serious illness later in life. One, pertussis, commonly called whooping cough, affects infants. Seniors who spend time around babies should stay up to date with this booster.
Vaccines Based on Individual Risk
Seniors with certain health conditions or risk factors may need the hepatitis B vaccine to protect against serious liver infections. This vaccine is important for those with ongoing health concerns or specific exposure risks.
The MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) and varicella (chickenpox) vaccines are usually recommended when there’s no clear evidence of immunity. Healthcare providers use medical history and individual risk to decide if these vaccines are necessary.
Where to Get Vaccinated in Myrtle Beach
There are plenty of convenient options here to help seniors stay current on their vaccines. The Horry County Health Department and community clinics often hold vaccine clinics and share valuable Myrtle Beach wellness tips for seniors.
Primary care providers can offer personalized advice and give vaccinations during regular checkups. Local pharmacies provide walk-in vaccine services, making it easy to fit shots into any schedule.
Supportive services at TerraBella Myrtle Beach are another excellent resource for help staying on track with vaccines. Home health professionals, including visiting physicians, are available to help residents figure out what vaccines they need.
Making Sense of Vaccine Insurance and Payment Options
Most vaccines recommended for seniors are covered under Medicare Part B or Part D, which helps reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Checking the specifics of a Medicare plan or consulting with a healthcare provider can clarify vaccine coverage and whether any copayments apply.
If Medicare coverage isn’t available, or if you need more affordable options, many local pharmacies and community health clinics offer vaccines at reduced prices. Some clinics provide special programs or sliding-scale fees based on income, so asking about financial assistance or vaccine discounts can make staying current more manageable.
Many senior communities offer vaccine clinics as part of their wellness program. Our Dimensions Health & Fitness program offers residents many opportunities to learn about staying healthy, including guest speakers who sometimes share information about vaccines.
Healthy Living at TerraBella Myrtle Beach
The vaccines recommended for seniors target the illnesses most likely to cause setbacks in both short and long-term health. From flu and shingles shots to newer options like RSV protection, staying current means staying well, so you can make the most of every day.
Life at TerraBella Myrtle Beach combines the best of independent living and supportive services. Live life on your terms with help when you need it, plus access to resort-style amenities, scenic surroundings, and a warm coastal community that feels like home.
Schedule a personal tour and see what life could be like here on South Carolina’s famous Grand Strand!
