[Vaccination of the elderly: how to communicate better]

Elderly people are high risk patients who need specific and tailored monitoring. Prevention is an important part in taking care of their well-being. The utility and efficacy of vaccination against influenza, diphtheria and tetanus are now indisputable for seniors, but coverage is still insufficient. This article will discuss the reasons for insufficient adherence, assuming that the general practitioner or another unit of the health care system has suggested a vaccination plan to the senior patient. With this goal in mind, we explored the various obstacles that may occur during the communication between physician and patient, be it due to old age (sensory loss), linked to cognitive decline or directly in relationship with the myths and beliefs surrounding vaccination, especially the vaccine against influenza.