Each year, up to 85 percent of flu-related deaths in the U.S. occur in adults aged 65 and older, says the CDC. This is just one reason why vaccines remain a key part of aging care in Chula Vista. August marks Immunization Awareness Month, a time to highlight the importance of preventive care for older adults.
Chula Vista, CA, located just minutes from San Diego, is home to a large senior population. With year-round sunshine and vibrant community living, it's vital that older adults stay protected from preventable illness.
This guide shares vaccine facts, expert guidance, and local relevance to help Chula Vista seniors stay well through every season.
Aging weakens the immune system. This makes it harder for the body to fight off infections and bounce back after illness.
Vaccines prepare the body by helping it build natural defenses in advance. For older adults, this can mean fewer complications and hospital stays.
According to the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases, there are now 15 diseases that adults over 65 should be vaccinated against. Many of these can lead to serious health issues if left unprotected.
Seniors are more likely to develop complications from infections. Even if you've had a disease before, a vaccine can still help reduce the severity or prevent it from coming back.
Vaccines can help lower the risk of:
Many of these illnesses can lead to hospitalization or long-term effects in older adults. For example, pneumonia can cause breathing trouble for weeks, and shingles may lead to lasting nerve pain. Vaccines help reduce these risks, making it easier for seniors to stay active and avoid serious health setbacks.
California's senior population is growing. As more residents age into their 70s, vaccine access becomes essential to public health. The state follows national CDC guidelines, which recommend several key vaccines for adults over 60.
Shingrix is recommended for adults aged 50 and older, regardless of previous shingles history. According to the CDC, two doses are needed within two to six months.
Annual flu shots are especially important for older adults. Pneumococcal vaccines help protect against bacterial pneumonia, a common complication in the elderly. These vaccines can greatly reduce the chance of serious illness during peak flu season.
Updated COVID-19 vaccines continue to be essential. Boosters improve protection and lower the risk of severe outcomes. Seniors should check with their doctor each year for updated recommendations.
Many adults forget about vaccines after childhood, but protection doesn't stop at 18. Following a schedule helps lower the risk of disease outbreaks in communities like Chula Vista, where seniors live closely together in senior living communities such as The Pasea Senior Living.
Ask your healthcare provider for a copy of your vaccine record. This makes it easier to check for missing doses or overdue updates.
Yearly checkups are the best time to talk about vaccine needs. Your provider can review any changes in health or risk that may affect your vaccination plan.
Many clinics offer multiple shots in one visit. This reduces travel and helps ensure nothing gets skipped. It's a simple way to keep preventive care on track during Immunization Awareness Month.
Chula Vista's aging population benefits from a wide range of local programs focused on preventive wellness. Immunizations are a part of this larger effort to support healthy, independent aging. Community wellness programs often include:
Keeping up with immunizations helps older adults stay active in these community programs without increased risk of illness.
The Pasea is a community in Chula Vista built with senior wellness in mind. Residents have access to spaces designed for active aging, including:
View a full list of amenities at The Pasea to learn how this setting encourages physical and social wellness daily.
Vaccines go through careful testing for every age group, including seniors. Most side effects are mild and go away within a day or two. The benefits often far outweigh the risks, especially for older adults with chronic health conditions.
Vaccines are even more important for people with heart disease, diabetes, or lung conditions. These groups are more likely to suffer from long recovery times and hospital stays if they catch something preventable.
When most people in a group are vaccinated, the whole community becomes safer.This is called herd immunity. In senior communities, where people spend time together daily, it's key to avoid major outbreaks.
Residents at The Pasea enjoy a choice of independent living, assisted living, and memory care in Chula Vista, CA. All options are designed to reduce health risks and improve daily life. Thoughtful layouts, clean shared spaces, and support staff all help keep the environment wellness-focused.
Explore the floor plans to see how The Pasea combines comfort with aging-friendly design.
Reliable information makes health decisions easier. The CDC offers trusted facts about adult vaccines, including who needs them and when. You can also talk with a pharmacist or primary care provider about any concerns or side effects.
In San Diego County, many clinics and pharmacies provide walk-in immunizations during Immunization Awareness Month. Seniors in Chula Vista can find local vaccine sites through their county health department.
Immunization Awareness Month is the perfect time to check your vaccine status. Protecting your health today helps you stay active, independent, and involved in the community tomorrow.
At The Pasea, senior living supports total wellness in every season. With beautiful indoor and outdoor settings, a gourmet restaurant, active programming, and a commitment to comfort, residents thrive here in Chula Vista.
Contact us to learn more about our lifestyle and how The Pasea supports a healthier, safer retirement.