August Reminder: Immunizations Matter

August is National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM), a time to spotlight that vaccines are not just for kids. They protect people of all ages, especially those whose immune systems are weaker, elderly adults, or those managing chronic illness.

Even when summer fades and fall begins, the need for certain vaccines doesn’t fade. In fact, the shift in seasons, increased indoor time, and more respiratory illnesses circulating make staying up to date more important than ever.

Why Vaccines Still Matter in Later Life

As we age, our immune systems often don’t respond as vigorously as they once did. That means older adults are more vulnerable to infections, complications, and hospitalizations. Vaccines help by boosting protection, reducing severity, and sometimes preventing infection entirely.

Here are key vaccinations to watch:

• Influenza (flu) vaccine every year — flu seasons differ year to year.

• Pneumococcal vaccines (to help prevent pneumonia and other lung infections) — especially for adults 65+.

• Shingles vaccine (herpes zoster) — the risk of shingles rises with age.

• Tdap or booster shots (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis) — because immunity can fade.

• COVID-19 and booster doses (per current guidelines) — particularly for those with chronic conditions.

• Any missed or overdue vaccines from earlier life that may still provide benefit.

Vaccines do more than protect an individual. They reduce the spread of disease in the community, and protect those who cannot get vaccinated due to allergies, immunosuppression, or age.

Also, vaccine immunity can wane. What “protected” meant ten or twenty years ago may not hold today. That’s why adults need periodic updating, not just childhood schedules.

When Seasonal Shifts Make Immunization More Urgent

• As fall and winter approach, people spend more time indoors, increasing the spread of respiratory illnesses (flu, RSV, etc.).

• Some vaccines, like the flu shot, are timed to be given before flu season peaks.

• If underlying lung or respiratory disease is present (COPD, asthma), vaccination for pneumonia and flu is especially protective.

• In healthcare settings, closer quarters, more exposure, and shared spaces mean infections spread faster.

So even though August feels like summer’s last stretch, it’s smart to use this month for a “vaccination checkup” for yourself and loved ones.

Barriers, Fears & Missteps — What Holds People Back

Even though vaccines are powerful tools, many people delay or skip them. Here are common barriers, especially in older or chronically ill populations:

• Concern about side effects

• Belief “I’m healthy, so I don’t need it”

• Misinformation or conflicting messages

• Access challenges (transportation, cost, mobility)

• Confusion over which vaccines are recommended and when

• Cognitive issues or memory problems making them forget or mismanage schedules

These are real obstacles, but many can be managed with support, reminders, and help navigating the health system.

How Caregiving & Home Care Can Support Immunization

This is where BrightStar Care (or your home care team) becomes part of the solution.

• Reminders & follow-ups — Our caregivers can help clients keep track of which vaccines they need, when they’re due, and help schedule appointments.

• Transportation support — We can assist getting clients to clinics or doctors for their shots.

• Education & clarity — We can explain vaccine benefits, side effects, and help clients or families make informed decisions.

• Health status monitoring — Before vaccination, caregivers can help assess whether someone is well enough to receive a vaccine (e.g. no active fever, no acute illness).

• Post-vaccine support — After shots, caregivers can watch for side effects, help with rest, hydration, and comfort.

• Coordination with medical providers — We help close gaps between home care and the clinic, ensuring vaccination records are tracked, communicated, and honored in care plans.

BrightStar Care® is Here to Help

At BrightStar Care® of Maple Grove and Andover, we offer a wide range of home care and medical staffing services that enrich the quality of life for those who need care from the comfort of their home. We strive to provide the full continuum of care to our community while keeping our focus on offering a higher standard of care. Offering unparalleled support for our local healthcare system while providing a variety of high-quality, compassionate care, we work to give our clients the best lives possible while also strengthening the broader community. Contact us through our website or call 952.600.7352, so that we can help you find the right support to fit your unique needs.