Tag: JEVS Care at Home

 By Thomas H.  

What is the flu? 

The flu, or influenza, is a highly contagious viral infection that affects the respiratory system, including the nose, throat, and lungs. Common symptoms include fever, chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, fatigue, and sometimes nausea or vomiting. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), “Each year, up to 1 in 5 Americans are laid low by the flu. Most get better within a week, but for some the flu and its complications can be life-threatening.” [SOURCE: https://www.nih.gov/about-nih/what-we-do/nih-turning-discovery-into-health/influenza ] 

Should I get vaccinated? 

The US Centers for Disease Control CDC recommends the flu vaccine for nearly everyone over the age of 6 months. Getting a flu shot significantly decreases your chance of becoming seriously ill with the flu and makes it less likely that you’ll spread the infection to others. [SOURCE: https://www.ama-assn.org/delivering-care/public-health/8-things-doctors-wish-patients-knew-about-flu-vaccines] According to the Mayo Clinic, the flu shot is particularly important for people who are at elevated risk of severe complications. High risk groups include seniors over the age of 65; people who suffer from chronic illnesses; people who live in nursing homes/long-term care facilities; pregnant women and new mothers. [SOURCE: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/flu/in-depth/flu-shots/art-20048000 ] Ask your doctor if your risk is elevated. Your doctor can also tell you if you are someone who should not get a flu shot, for example due to a rare health condition or allergy to an ingredient in the vaccine.  

I got a flu shot last year. Why do I need one again this year? 

There are several strains of the virus that causes the flu, and the strain changes from year to year. Vaccine manufacturers adjust the flu shot annually so it is optimally effective against whatever strain is circulating. Also, the flu shot wears off over time. Scientists hope to one day develop a permanent flu vaccine, but no current vaccine offers protection for more than one flu season. [SOURCE: https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/its-good-time-get-your-flu-vaccine ] 

There are different versions of the flu vaccine. Which one should I get?  

According to the US Centers for Disease Control (CDC), if you are an adult under the age of 65 there’s no benefit in choosing one flu vaccine over another. If you are over 65, however, certain versions of the vaccine are preferred. Whatever you age, consult with your doctor to make sure the flu shot is appropriate for you based on your overall health and any risk factors you may have.  [SOURCE: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/vaccines/vaccinations.html ] 

Can I still get the flu if I get a flu shot? 

The flu vaccine significantly reduces your risk of getting the flu, but it does not offer 100% protection. Public Health experts estimate that the flu shot is 40%-60% effective in preventing the disease. If you do get the flu after you’ve had the shot, your symptoms will be less severe, and there is much less chance that you will pass along the flu to someone else. [SOURCE: https://www.ama-assn.org/delivering-care/public-health/8-things-doctors-wish-patients-knew-about-flu-vaccines ] 

Will I experience side effects? 

Some people experience side effects after getting a flu shot. You may experience headache, a slight fever, or muscle aches. Side effects are usually mild, however, and they go away after a couple of days.  The possible side effects may be the reason why some people mistakenly believe that getting the flu shot gives you the flu. [SOURCE: https://www.uchicagomedicine.org/forefront/prevention-and-screening-articles/frequently-asked-questions-about-the-flu-vaccine ] 

Can I get a flu shot and other vaccines at the same time? 

Yes, you can get other vaccines, like the COVID-19 vaccine, at the same time you get your flu shot.  Getting more than 1 vaccine at a time may slightly increase your chance of experiencing side effects, however. When you consult with your doctor about vaccines, ask her/him which annual vaccines you need and whether it’s advisable to get more than one of them at the same time based on your age, overall health, and any risk factors. [SOURCE:  https://www.cdc.gov/vaccine-safety/about/multiples.html ] 

JEVS Care At Home Supports Seniors and Adults with Disabilities 

Our home care services help individuals live fully and independently at home. For more information, get in touch today: JEVS Care at Home – JEVS Human Services

by Thomas H. and Nurse Kim

This guide is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice.

Diabetes: A Quick Guide for Caregivers 

Diabetes is a condition where the body can’t make or use insulin correctly. Insulin helps control blood sugar levels, and without it, blood sugar can get too high.

It’s important for caregivers to know about the prevalence of diabetes and learn to recognize symptoms. According to the American Diabetes Association, 38.4. million Americans, or 11.6% of the population, had diabetes in 2021. The ADA estimates that 8.7 million of those people were undiagnosed. Also, the prevalence of diabetes among people 65 and older is high, at 29.2%, or 16.5 million seniors. This includes both diagnosed and undiagnosed individuals. [SOURCE: Statistics About Diabetes | ADA]

Two Types of Diabetes

In type 1 diabetes, the body doesn’t make insulin. The immune system mistakenly attacks cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. This type is usually diagnosed in children or young adults, but it can appear at any age. People with type 1 diabetes need daily insulin to stay healthy.

In type 2 diabetes, the body doesn’t make or use insulin properly. This type is more common in middle-aged and older adults, although it can develop at any age. Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes. [SOURCE: Diabetes Basics | Diabetes | CDC]

Symptoms of Diabetes

Both types of diabetes share some symptoms. In Type 1 diabetes, symptoms often start quickly and are more severe. Common symptoms of diabetes include:

• Hunger and Fatigue: The body uses insulin to help cells absorb glucose for energy. Without enough insulin or when cells resist insulin, glucose can’t enter the cells. This causes fatigue and hunger.
• Frequent Urination and Thirst: People with diabetes may need to urinate more often because high blood sugar causes the kidneys to produce more urine, which can lead to dehydration and thirst.
• Dry Mouth and Itchy Skin: When the body uses more fluids to make urine, less moisture is available elsewhere, leading to dry mouth and itchy skin.
• Blurred Vision: Changing fluid levels can affect the eyes, making it hard to focus.
• Slow-Healing Sores or Cuts: High blood sugar can damage blood flow and nerves, slowing down healing.
• Pain or Numbness in Feet or Legs: Nerve damage from high blood sugar can cause pain or numbness, especially in the feet and legs. [SOURCE: https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/signs-symptoms/index.html SOURCE: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/7104-diabetes]

Diagnosis and Early Action

The best way to manage diabetes is through early and accurate diagnosis. Anyone experiencing the above symptoms should talk with their doctor.

Help from JEVS Care at Home

JEVS Care at Home helps seniors and adults with disabilities live fully and independently at home. For more information about our services, contact us today: https://www.jevshumanservices.org/jevs-care-at-home-form/

By Thomas H.

It is very likely that Alzheimer’s disease will touch our lives in some way. Medical research has made significant progress in the diagnosis and management of this disease. However, cases are on the rise in the US, and Alzheimer’s remains uncurable.

To help increase awareness and do our part to support Alzheimer’s research, JEVS Care at Home is participating once again in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s. This annual event is sponsored by The Alzheimer’s Association and takes place this year on November 9. November is National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month.

As we look ahead to participating in this year’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s, here are some essential facts about Alzheimer’s Disease and related dementias:

• More than 7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. 
• In 2021, Alzheimer’s Disease was the 5th most common cause of death for people 65 years and older in the United States
• 1:3 Seniors die with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias.
• Between 2000 and 2021 deaths from Alzheimer’s increased by 141%.
• Medical and long-term costs for people who suffer from dementia is project to hit $360 billion in 2024

[SOURCE: www.alz.org]

Alzheimer’s vs Dementia: what’s the difference?

Dementia is an umbrella term for a group of symptoms. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, “The characteristic symptoms of dementia are difficulties with memory, language, problem-solving and other thinking skills.” [SOURCE: Alzheimer’s Association, 2024 Alzheimer’s Facts and Figures]

Alzheimer’s is a progressive brain disease that causes dementia. When someone has Alzheimer’s, their brain changes. It begins producing an abnormal form of a protein called tau and an excessive amount of a protein fragment called beta-amyloid. Alzheimer’s disease also damages and destroys neurons, or nerve cells, in the brain. These changes contribute to dementia. Dementia that is caused by Alzheimer’s disease is called Alzheimer’s dementia. (SOURCE: Alzheimer’s Association, 2024 Alzheimer’s Facts and Figures)

What Causes Alzheimer’s Disease?

According to The National Institutes of Aging (NIA), scientists don’t fully understand what causes Alzheimer’s. The cause may be a combination of things, including age-related changes in the brain, genetics, and environmental & lifestyle factors. “The importance of any one of these factors in increasing or decreasing the risk of developing Alzheimer’s may differ from person to person,” says the NIA. [SOURCE: National Institutes of Aging “Alzheimer’s Disease Fact Sheet)

Signs of Alzheimer’s

The Alzheimer’s Association lists 10 signs that someone may be suffering from dementia or Alzheimer’s:

• Memory loss that disrupts daily life
• Challenges in planning or solving problems
• Difficulty completing familiar tasks
• Confusion with time or place
• Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships
• New problems with words in speaking or writing
• Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps
• Decreased or Poor Judgement
• Withdrawal from work or social activities
• Changes in mood and personality

[SOURCE: Alzheimer’s Association: 10 Early Signs and Symptoms of Alzheimer’s and Dementia]

If you notice any of these signs, you should discuss them with your doctor immediately. If you notice them in a loved one, speak with them as soon as possible. The Alzheimer’s Society (UK) offers the following tips for speaking with someone when you are concerned that they may have dementia:

1. Pick a place that is familiar and comfortable
2. Choose a time when you won’t be rushed or interrupted
3. Choose the words you use carefully
4. Be positive
5. Listen

[SOURCE: Alzheimer’s Society: Talking to someone about their memory problems]

You might begin the conversation by asking your loved one if they have been feeling differently or if they’ve noticed any changes in themselves. When you describe what you’ve observed, be reassuring and use non-judgmental language. Let them know you love them and are concerned, but don’t say that you are worried that they might have dementia or Alzheimer’s. This could confuse or frighten them. Be respectful and patient. Don’t be surprised or offended if your loved one dismisses your concerns or if they respond with annoyance. Accept that it may take time and more than one conversation before they are ready to seek help.

Resources for Alzheimer’s Patients and Caregivers:

The Alzheimer’s Association is a valuable resource for Alzheimer’s support, education, and advocacy. It offers a range of support and free services to help those who are facing the challenge of living with Alzheimer’s. Patients, their family members and caregivers in Pennsylvania can seek support through the following:

The Alzheimer’s Association’s free 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900). Patients, their caregivers, and family members can use this service to connect with a live person who can provide information, local resources, crisis assistance, and emotional support. 

The Alzheimer’s Association Delaware Valley Chapter serves Greater Philadelphia, the Lehigh Valley, Delaware, and southern New Jersey.

The Alzheimer’s Association Greater Pennsylvania Chapter serves western, central and northeastern Pennsylvania. The chapter has offices in Harrisburg and Pittsburgh, plus a network of staff and volunteers throughout the state.

Alzheimer’s and Dementia Capable Care at JEVS Care at Home

JEVS Care at Home supports many people with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. We provide training for our caregivers in Dementia Capable Care (DCC). DCC is an evidence-based dementia and behavior training program. It teaches caregivers how to deliver the special care that dementia sufferers need. The program focuses on ways to prevent and respond to many of the behaviors that are typical with dementia. These include confusion, agitation, and aggression. Caregivers who receive DCC have knowledge and skills that can help people with dementia live better lives at home.

 

For more information on our services, contact us today.

By Thomas H.

When you visit your primary care doctor, how long do you expect your appointment to last? Don’t factor any time you might spend in the waiting room. Estimate only the time you spend in the examination room with your doctor.  

According to a 2023 study published in JAMA Health Forum, patients spend an average of 15 to 18 minutes with their doctor per appointment. The doctor uses some of those minutes to perform an exam based on the reason for the visit, and a few more typing or writing notes or completing other tasks.  

The bottom line is that a doctor’s visit can be over before you know it, and patients may not have enough time to ask questions or accomplish everything they set out to in scheduling their appointment.  

But there is a way to optimize every doctor’s appointment–by planning ahead. This is especially important if you are the caregiver of a loved one or client and one of your responsibilities is to accompany and assist them with their medical appointments.  

When should you take someone to see the doctor? 

• Annual check-ups and regularly scheduled appointments 

• Changes in health, bodily functions, or behavior 

• Injuries or sudden illness 

How can caregivers prepare for their client or loved one’s doctor’s appointment?   

First, track the person’s symptoms as you provide care. Note any recent physical or mental changes, including new complaints about pain(s), changes in mood, mobility and functioning, along with any increase or decrease in weight. Next, schedule the appointment for a time of day when the person you care for is most likely to be alert and energetic. A few days before the appointment, sit down with the person and write out a list of questions.  

Use the following checklist to ensure that you bring everything you need for the appointment: 

• Insurance cards 

• Current medication list 

• A list of all doctors that the patient sees 

• Medical history (for new doctors) 

• Calendar/Planner to schedule and record follow up visits (add future appointments to the calendar on your phone if that’s convenient) 

Download a printable version of the checklist for your next appointment.

If the person you are caring for is a new client, talk to them about your role and ask them about any specific wishes or preferences they may have for their appointment, for example, if they’d like to spend some time alone with the doctor. Note that in some cases you may need to attend the patient for the whole appointment, for example, if the patient has dementia or poses a fall risk). 

If the person has difficulty understanding or remembering: 

• Ask the doctor to clarify if things are confusing 

• Ask about side effects for new medications/changes in medications 

• Ask what to do if there are complications 

After the Appointment: 

Review any notes you take and discuss the visit with your loved one/client. Make sure you have added any follow-up appointments to your calendar. Call the pharmacy and order any prescriptions or arrange for pick-up or delivery of any prescriptions the doctor may have phoned in or submitted electronically. Call the doctor’s office to get any test results and relay any additional questions you or the person have. 

There are multiple factors that impact the amount of time doctors can spend with any one patient, so it’s important to make the best use of the time you have in the examining room.  Following these simple guidelines will go a long way towards ensuring a successful visit each time you visit the doctor. 

JEVS Care at Home helps seniors and adults with disabilities lead full and independent lives 

Contact us today for more information about our award-winning home care services: https://www.jevshumanservices.org/jevs-care-at-home-form/  

DOWNLOAD CHECKLIST

By Thomas H. 

Frequently Asked Questions about Home Care from JEVS Care at Home 

If you have never considered home care for yourself or a loved one, you probably have questions about available services, eligibility, payment options, and more. Below you’ll find the questions we hear most frequently from prospective clients and their families. If you have questions that aren’t answered here, please contact us at https://www.jevshumanservices.org/jevs-care-at-home-form/ A member of our team will be in touch! 

1. What is non-medical home care?

Non-medical home care focuses on helping clients with daily living activities such as personal care, meal preparation, light housekeeping, and companionship. Our services are provided based on an individualized Plan of Care that we create for each client. Home care services from JCAH complement any medical care a client is receiving.  

 

2. What services do you offer, and how will they benefit my loved one?

We offer a range of services including personal care, bathing, dressing, grooming, meal preparation, mobility assistance, medication reminders, and companionship. These services are designed based on each client’s unique needs. Services from JCAH help clients maintain their independence and improve their quality of life in their own homes. 

 

3. How do you ensure the quality and safety of your caregivers?

Our caregivers undergo a rigorous hiring process that includes background checks, reference checks, and comprehensive training. We also provide ongoing training and supervision, conduct regular check-ins to make sure caregivers follow each client’s Plan of Care, and we maintain open communication with clients and their families to ensure high-quality care. 

 

4. Are your services covered by insurance, Medicare, or Medicaid?

Non-medical home care is generally not covered by Medicare but may be covered by some private insurance plans or long-term care insurance. Qualified PA Medicaid recipients can receive services free of charge. We will help you or your loved one explore payment options, including private pay, veteran benefits, and Medicaid “waiver” programs. 

 

5. How do you match caregivers with clients?

We carefully match caregivers with clients based on the client’s needs, preferences, personality, and the caregiver’s skills and experience. We value compatibility and encourage feedback from families. Clients have the option to meet and approve their caregiver before services begin and can request a change if the match is not ideal. 

 

6. What are your rates, and how is billing handled?

Services are available at no cost to qualified Medicaid participants and eligible veterans, and we have affordable rates for those who self-pay. Rates can vary based on the level of care needed, the number of hours, and any specific services required. We provide a detailed cost breakdown and work with families to create a care plan that fits their budget. Billing is typically handled on a weekly or monthly basis, with transparent invoicing.   

 

7. What happens if our caregiver is sick or unavailable?

We make sure every client has a back-up plan in case their caregiver becomes ill or is unable to make a scheduled shift. We communicate any schedule changes immediately, and we’ll supply a substitute caregiver whenever possible.   

 

8. How flexible is your scheduling, and can care be adjusted as needs change?

Our scheduling is very flexible, allowing for care from a few hours a week to 24/7 support. Care plans can be adjusted as needs change, whether temporarily or permanently, to ensure that clients receive the appropriate level of care. 

 

9. What is the process for starting care, and how quickly can services begin? 

The process starts with a free consultation to assess the client’s needs and preferences. We then develop a personalized Plan of Care and match the client with a caregiver. Services can begin in as few as 48-72 hours, depending on the urgency and availability. 

 

10. How do you handle emergencies or situations when immediate assistance is needed?

We have an on-call system and emergency protocols in place to respond to urgent needs 24/7. Our caregivers are trained to handle various emergencies, and our on-call staff is available to provide support and coordinate care after hours and in crisis situations. 

By Thomas H.

As we age, managing cholesterol becomes an important part of staying healthy. You may already be working with your doctor to keep your cholesterol in check, know that there’s both “good” and “bad” cholesterol, and that too much cholesterol can lead to heart problems.  But cholesterol and how to manage it changes over time. An approach to treatment that makes sense for someone in their 40s may not be appropriate for someone who is 60 or older. Here is a quick overview of what older adults need to know about cholesterol. 

What is Cholesterol? 

Cholesterol is a waxy substance found in your blood. Your body needs it to build healthy cells. It helps make hormones and vitamins that keep you healthy. Your liver makes most of the cholesterol in your body, but you also get some from foods like meat and dairy. 

“Good” Cholesterol and “Bad” Cholesterol 

The two main types of cholesterol are LDL and HDL. LDL is often called “bad” cholesterol because it can build up in your arteries and cause problems. HDL is known as “good” cholesterol because it helps remove other forms of cholesterol from your bloodstream. Many people have difficulty remembering which cholesterol is “good” and which is “bad.” It may you to remember that the “L” in LDL, the so-called “bad” cholesterol, can stand for “lethal” if you have too much of it.  

How high cholesterol affects heart health 

When you have too much cholesterol in your blood, it can stick to the walls of your arteries. This buildup is called plaque. Plaque makes your arteries narrow and stiff, and this can lead to heart attacks and strokes. 

The role of genetics in cholesterol levels 

Some people have high cholesterol because it runs in their family. This is called familial hypercholesterolemia. If your parents or grandparents had high cholesterol, you might be more likely to have it too. 

The importance of regular cholesterol screenings:  

Getting your cholesterol checked regularly is important, especially as you get older. According to the American Heart Association, most adults should have their cholesterol checked every 4 to 6 years, but your doctor may recommend more frequent testing based on your health status, age and other factors. If you have risk factors for heart disease, for example, you might need to be tested more often. 

Normal cholesterol ranges and when to be concerned:  

Doctors look at several different “numbers” when determining if someone has healthy cholesterol or not. These numbers indicate the amounts of each type of cholesterol that someone has in their blood, along with the total amount of cholesterol. In general, a healthy adult over the age of 20 should have a total cholesterol number of less than 200 mg/dL. HDL cholesterol should be between 40 and 60 mg/dL for men and between 50 and 60 mg/dL for women. Men and women alike should have less than 100mg/dl of LDL cholesterol. If your numbers are outside these ranges, your doctor will want to discuss ways for you to improve them.   

Managing Your Cholesterol 

Cholesterol numbers outside the normal range may require you to make some small changes to your daily routine and the foods you eat, or you may need to take medication. Drugs known as statins are the most common type of medicine used to treat high cholesterol. Sometimes, changing your diet and lifestyle alone can improve your cholesterol. The Mayo Clinic recommends the following for maintaining healthy cholesterol numbers:  

• eat heart-healthy foods 

• exercise/increase physical activity 

• stop smoking 

• lose weight 

The Mayo Clinic adds that if you are already taking cholesterol-lowering medications, the changes listed above can boost their effectiveness. Read more about the Mayo clinic’s recommendations here: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-cholesterol/in-depth/reduce-cholesterol/art-20045935  

Johns Hopkins Medicine points out that doctors must be cautious about prescribing statin drugs to older adults. Statins can interact with other medications that many older people take. Guidelines suggest that doctors should be extra careful with patients over 75. However, these guidelines are just a starting point. Sometimes, treating other health issues might be more important than managing cholesterol. When deciding on the best treatment approach, doctors will consider the patient’s overall health and preferences. [SOURCE: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/high-cholesterol/older-adults-and-high-cholesterol-what-you-need-to-know ] 

New Developments 

Our understanding of cholesterol and how it impacts our overall health continues to evolve. For example, recent research suggests that there may be a link between high cholesterol levels and cognitive health in older adults. It’s important to note, however, that the relationship between cholesterol and the brain is complex and more studies are needed. https://www.nbcnews.com/health/heart-health/good-hdl-cholesterol-dementia-risk-rcna118772.  

If you are concerned about your cholesterol and how it may be impacting your health, make an appointment to see your doctor. This is especially important if it’s been a while since your last cholesterol screening. After you are screened, your doctor will discuss your cholesterol “numbers,” answer any questions you may have, and offer guidance on how to manage your cholesterol in a way that makes sense for your age and health status.

By Thomas H.

Kim St. Peter is JEVS Care at Home’s Director of Health and Education. She shared recently about her dual role as nurse and educator, what she finds most satisfying about her work, and how she explains the “JEVS Care at Home Difference” that separates us from other home care providers.  

Tell us a little bit about your professional background and how you came to work at JCAH 

I started working as a personal care aide in 2008, right after high school. I really loved it, so I enrolled in nursing school and graduated in 2011 with my LPN. I worked in nursing homes for a while before I was offered a job with JEVS Care at Home back in 2013. I have been in the home care field ever since! 

What are your responsibilities? 

I do a little bit of everything here at JCAH, but my two main focuses are health and education. I oversee our tuberculosis testing compliance, I track our client’s hospitalizations and follow up with them when they come home, I visit with clients in their home, and much more.  I am our instructor for our CPR/AED & First Aid class, Dementia Capable Care class, Mental Health/First Aid class, and I am our Skills Lab instructor. I support all 4 of our Pennsylvania offices. 

What do you enjoy most about your work/what aspect of it do you find most satisfying/fulfilling? 

I love getting the chance to speak with our clients, caregivers, and families. It’s definitely fulfilling whenever I can offer assistance, education, or support.   

How would you explain “The JCAH Difference” to a potential client or potential partner in the community? 

Here at JEVS Care at Home, we have many things that set us apart. One main thing would be that we offer a variety of different trainings in-house for our caregivers to help develop their skill set. We have an extraordinarily supportive administrative team that is focused on what we call “The Three Cs”: care, commitment, and communication. 

What do you enjoy doing when you’re not working? 

When I am not working, you will find me spending time with my daughter, Kira, and my husband. I enjoy going to concerts, travelling, and camping. 

If you were able to acquire one “superpower”, what would it be? 

I think healing powers would be really cool. 

Tell us some facts about yourself. 

I have been to 38 states, and I have 11 nieces and nephews! 

Annual Vaccines: What PA Seniors Need to Know 

August is National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM). It’s an ideal time to talk about annual vaccines and the protection they offer—especially for adults over 65 years of age. Here’s what older adults need to know: 

Vaccines are a familiar part of our healthcare from the time we are young children through adulthood. Staying up-to-date on vaccines is increasingly important as we age.  According to the Pennsylvania Department of Aging, older adults are, “more likely to get diseases like the flu, pneumonia, and shingles — and to have complications that can lead to long-term illness, hospitalization, and even death.” Also, catching an infection like pneumonia or the flu can be particularly serious for anyone who has a chronic health condition like heart disease or diabetes.   

Vaccine Recommendations from the PA Department of Aging: 

Here are the vaccines that the Pennsylvania Department of Aging recommends for adults older than 65: 

Seasonal Flu (Influenza) 

The flu can lead to pneumonia, hospitalization, and even death, especially in people aged 65 and older. According to the American Medical Association (AMA), the flu shot reduces flu risk by as much as 60%. Its effectiveness varies from year to year based on which strains of the flu are circulating. In an interview for the AMA website, Dr. Kate Kirley, the organization’s Director of Chronic Disease Prevention, points out that, “Even when the vaccine is only 30% effective at preventing flu, that is still very meaningful and crucial for preventing hospitalizations and deaths.” Getting an annual flu shot is the best way to protect yourself against the flu and its complications. (SOURCE: https://www.ama-assn.org/delivering-care/public-health/8-things-doctors-wish-patients-knew-about-flu-shots ) 

Pneumonia (pneumococcal) 

Pneumococcal diseases, including pneumonia, can be severe and life-threatening for older adults. This is especially true for those who have a chronic condition, such as diabetes or COPD, says the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP). Since pneumonia is spread through person-to-person contact, when you get vaccinated you protect others along with yourself. There are several vaccine varieties that will protect you against pneumococcal disease. Your doctor can advise you about which one is right for you. This article from the AAFP offers a wealth of information for seniors about the pneumococcal vaccine: https://familydoctor.org/pneumococcal-vaccines-for-seniors/  

Tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis (Tdap or Td) 

These three diseases are caused by bacterial infections. Tetanus, which is sometimes called “lockjaw,” causes muscle pain and stiffness that can make it difficult to open your mouth or swallow.  Diptheria can lead to heart problems and difficulty breathing. Pertussis, also called “Whooping Cough,” causes violent coughing and can lead to weight loss, loss of bladder control, and other serious problems for adults.  According to Kathleen Cameron, Senior Director of the National Council on Aging’s Center for Healthy Aging, “The Tdap vaccination is an essential part of preventive health care for older adults. By getting vaccinated, older adults significantly reduce their risk of contracting these serious diseases, and they help protect others.” [SOURCE: https://www.ncoa.org/article/tdap-vaccine-what-older-adults-need-to-know ]

Shingles (Zoster) 

Shingles is outbreak of the chickenpox (varicella-zoster) virus. According to the Mayo Clinic, if you have had chickenpox, “the virus stays in your body for the rest of your life” [SOURCE: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/shingles/symptoms-causes/syc-20353054] and it can reactivate at any time. Shingles causes a painful rash. It can also cause complications like long-term nerve pain. Older people are at greater risk of complications. The shingles vaccine is highly effective at preventing both the disease and its complications. 

COVID-19 

COVID-19 is a highly contagious virus that can cause severe respiratory illness. In seniors it can lead to serious health problems, hospitalization, and death. According to the Centers for Disease Control, “Everyone aged 5 years and older should get 1 dose of an updated COVID-19 vaccine to protect against serious illness from COVID-19.” The CDC recommends that people over 65 get an additional dose “at least four months after their initial updated dose.” For the CDC’s latest recommendations about COVID-19 vaccination, click here: https://www.cdc.gov/covid/vaccines/stay-up-to-date.html?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/stay-up-to-date.html

According to the CDC, “people who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 have a lower risk of severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19 than people who are unvaccinated” or who did not receive all recommended doses.  

Schedule an Appointment with Your Doctor About Annual Vaccines 

Before you get any vaccinations be sure to check with your doctor. This is especially important if you haven’t been vaccinated for some time or if your health status has changed since your last round of vaccines. Your doctor may have specific recommendations about vaccines based on your health status and any treatment you are receiving. Your doctor can also provide additional information to help you make an informed decision about vaccines and their benefits versus possible risks.  

JEVS Care at Home is committed to helping seniors and adults with disabilities live full and independent lives at home. For more information on the support we provide, contact us today:  Learn More – JEVS Human Services