Patient Perspective: Vaccines for Older People

Area of Science:

• Community Health
• Vaccinology
• Public Health

Background:

• Pharmacists are accessible healthcare providers crucial for community health.
• Immunizations protect against severe diseases like COVID-19, influenza, pneumonia, shingles, hepatitis, and monkeypox.
• Older adults (65+) have higher vaccination rates but face disparities and hesitancy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the role of pharmacists in promoting adult immunizations.
• To address barriers to vaccination in older adults.
• To emphasize the importance of updated immunization guidelines.

Main Methods:

• Review of current immunization practices and guidelines.
• Identification of barriers to vaccine uptake in older adults.
• Discussion of the pharmacist's role in patient education and vaccine administration.

Main Results:

• Healthcare disparities impact vaccination rates based on socioeconomic status, race, ethnicity, gender, and sexuality.
• Vaccine hesitancy, cost, safety, and side effect concerns affect older adults.
• Updated 2023 CDC guidelines impact recommendations for influenza, COVID-19, and pneumonia vaccines.

Conclusions:

• Pharmacists are pivotal in health promotion and increasing vaccination rates among older adults.
• Addressing barriers and staying updated on guidelines are key roles for pharmacists.
• Immunizations are vital for protecting high-risk older populations from severe illness.