Seniors Need Vaccinations -- but Many Aren't Getting Them

IMG_1312

Is there a good reason for a senior not to get a vaccination? Shalowitz said: "The main reason they should not is allergy."

Shalowitz added: "Why don't they [get their shots]? The patients I have seen who refuse say they will get the flu or a cold from the shot. There can be a very mild reaction but that reason is not true and should not prevent people from getting immunized." Plainly put: it's commonly believed but it is a myth that the standard vaccinations will give you the disease itself. In just isn't true, said multiple sources.

Terry Fulmer, president of The John A. Hartford Foundation, which focuses on care of older adults, said that at least some seniors may not get vaccinations due to mobility issues - it's tough for them to get around. Others have memory impairment and may not remember that it's time to get a shot.

Dr. Fulmer was recently interviewed by Robert McGarvey from thestreet.com, to learn more about why seniors are not getting vaccinations, click here.