Vaccination in the elderly: what can be recommended?

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Immunology
• Public Health

Background:

• Aging is associated with increased susceptibility to infectious diseases, highlighting the importance of vaccination for healthy aging.
• Vaccination is cost-effective at a community level, yet individual immune response remains unpredictable, even in younger populations.
• Some individuals, including the elderly, respond well to vaccines, while others do not, regardless of age.

Purpose of the Study:

• To detail the burden of vaccine-preventable diseases in aging and aged populations.
• To identify ideal vaccine candidates for individuals over 50 years of age.
• To propose strategies for reducing this disease burden and overcoming barriers to lifelong vaccination schedules.

Main Methods:

• This review synthesizes current literature on vaccine-preventable diseases in older adults.
• It analyzes the effectiveness of various vaccines in this demographic.
• It discusses challenges and potential solutions for improving vaccine uptake and efficacy throughout the lifespan.

Main Results:

• The review details the significant burden of vaccine-preventable diseases in the aging and aged population.
• It identifies specific vaccine candidates that are particularly relevant for individuals over 50.
• It underscores the variability in immune responses to vaccination within this age group.

Conclusions:

• Vaccination is crucial for promoting healthy aging and maintaining autonomy in seniors.
• Strategies are needed to optimize vaccine selection and improve immune response in older adults.
• Overcoming barriers to lifelong vaccination schedules is imperative to reduce the burden of preventable diseases.