Older Adult | Infectious Respiratory Diseases | Vaccines

Your Best Defense: Vaccines for Older Adults

Last Updated 05/19/2026

Older adults are at increased risk for serious illness from infectious diseases like COVID-19, flu, RSV, pneumococcal disease, and shingles. Aging naturally weakens the immune system, and chronic health conditions become more common over time. This makes it harder for the body to fight off infections and can lead to longer recovery times, and a higher likelihood of hospital stays. Staying up to date on recommended vaccines is an important step that older adults can take to help protect and maintain their health and independence.

In recognition of Older Americans Month, CVEEP held a webinar highlighting the role vaccines play in helping protect adults from severe illness. Experts in vaccines and aging provided information on why older adults are at increased risk for severe outcomes, which vaccines are recommended based on age and health status, and where to access them. Speakers also offered practical guidance for older adults and caregivers on how to have informed conversations with healthcare providers and steps to stay up to date on vaccines.

COVID-19 | Flu | Older Adult

The Risks are Real: Barbara Resnick, PhD, RN, CRNP, FAAN, FAANP

Dr. Barbara Resnick, geriatric nurse practitioner and recognized leader in the field, reflects on the severe impacts of respiratory illness on her higher-risk patients.

Last Updated 02/23/2026

Pneumococcal Disease | Infectious Respiratory Diseases | Older Adult | Vaccines

Does Insurance Cover Pneumococcal Vaccines for Adults 50+?

Pneumococcal vaccines are recommended for all adults 50 years of age and older, and they are covered by both public and private insurance.

Last Updated 01/20/2026

Pneumococcal Disease | Infectious Respiratory Diseases | Older Adult | Vaccines

Pneumococcal Disease Risk in Adults Ages 50+

Learn more about the burden and risks of pneumococcal disease among adults 50+.

Last Updated 01/20/2026

Pneumococcal Disease | Infectious Respiratory Diseases | Older Adult | Vaccines

Pneumococcal Vaccines Explained: Answers for Adults 50+

Learn more about pneumococcal disease and how adults 50+ can stay protected through vaccination.

Last Updated 01/20/2026

Infectious Respiratory Disease Immunization Timeline: Older Adults (Ages 50+)

Immunization is the best protection against many infectious respiratory illnesses. Vaccines strengthen our immune defenses and reduce the severity and spread of disease.

Last Updated 12/23/2025

The Risks are Real: Randy Rutta

Randy Rutta, CEO of the National Health Council, discusses the importance of investing in community health through preventive measures such as vaccination.

Last Updated 12/22/2025

Infectious Respiratory Disease Immunization Timelines

Immunization is the best protection against many infectious respiratory illnesses. Learn more about the timelines for vaccination against infectious respiratory diseases for different groups of individuals.

Last Updated 12/19/2025

The Risks are Real: Emily Kryger, PharmD, BCGP

Dr. Emily Kryger, owner of PharmRecs LLC and a board certified geriatric pharmacist, discusses the impact that respiratory diseases have had on the population she cares for — and how vaccines have helped protect against severe illness.

Last Updated 11/25/2025

RSV | Older Adult | Vaccines

RSV Vaccines Explained: Answers for Adults 50+

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common respiratory virus. In many people, it causes cold-like symptoms, including cough, sore throat, fatigue, runny nose, and headache. However, for adults ages 50 and older, RSV can be far more serious. It can cause more severe illnesses such as pneumonia, bronchiolitis (an infection of the lungs), congestive heart failure, or worsening of asthma or COPD symptoms. Adults who get very sick from RSV may need to be hospitalized — and severe RSV can be life threatening.

Last Updated 11/07/2025