Preventing Infectious Diseases as You Age

Staying healthy as you age comes down to both luck (or genetics) and those things that you can control. Catching infectious diseases is one area where we have significant control. With just a few smart habits, you can fend off serious illnesses like the flu, RSV, and otherHere'se’s what older adults and their loved ones should know to stay protected during the 2025 virus season and beyond.

First, Why Should We Care About Prevention?

As we age, the immune system gets slower at fighting off viruses and bacteria. This means that catching something like the flu, pneumonia, or shingles can be a lot tougher on older bodies. It can even lead to hospital stays. By staying ahead of these infections, older adults can avoid missing out on favorite activities, spending time with family, or traveling.

Fighting Seasonal Infectious Diseases

RSV: This year, RSV—a virus that feels like a very bad cold—continues to send many seniors to the hospital, especially those over age 75. Experts recommend the RSV vaccine for everyone 75 and over, and for people 50–74 with health conditions like heart or lung problems.

Flu: The 2024–2025 flu season hit older adults hard—it was said to be the worst in 10 years. People over age  75 had some of the highest flu-related hospitalizations in years. Even when flu shots aren't perfect, they still prevent a huge number of severe cases.

COVID-19It's's still out there—anit's's still dangerous for seniors. The best defense is staying up to date on vaccines.

Pneumonia: This lung infection remains one of the top killers of older adults. Pneumococcal vaccines can prevent many types of bacterial pneumonia, and experts recommend that most adults over age 65 get both the PCV15/PCV20 and PPSV23 vaccines if they haven't already.

Other Infections To Watch and Prep For

Shingles: About one in three people will develop shingles in their lifetime, and the risk increases with age. The painful rash and nerve pain caused by this viral infection can last for months. The Shingrix vaccine is highly effective and recommended for everyone age 50 and older, even if they've had shingles before.

Whooping cough (pertussis): This bacterial infection causes severe coughing fits that can be especially dangerous for seniors with breathing problems. The Tdap vaccine protects against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis. Adults should get a Td or Tdap booster every 10 years.

Urinary tract infections (UTIs): UTIs become more common and serious with age, sometimes leading to confusion, falls, or blood infectionsThere's’s no vaccine against UTIs. Staying hydrated, practicing good hygiene, and seeking prompt treatment can help prevent complications.

Easy Ways To Stay Protected

Get vaccinated: This is the most important thing to do. Get annual flu shots, COVID-19 boosters as recommended, an RSV vaccine if eligible, and a pneumonia vaccine if needed. Get the shingles vaccine, and keep tetanus/pertussis boosters current. Many clinics can give multiple vaccines at the same time.

Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially before eating and after using the bathroom. Clean common surfaces like doorknobs and countertops regularly.

Stay away from sick people: If someone is coughing or feverish, keep your distance. Friends, family, and caregivers should not visit them when they're sick.

Improve indoor air quality: Open windows when possible. It’s too cold to do that, use an air

purifier. Good ventilation and circulation reduce the concentration of airborne germs.

Maintain healthy habits: Eat healthy foods, stay active, get enough sleep, manage stress, and don't smoke. 

Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps prevent UTIs and keeps mucous membranes moist, which helps trap germs before they cause an infection.

Travel safely: When traveling, especially during the busy holiday season, wash your hands often, consider wearing a mask, pack extra medications, and get plenty of rest.

Help Is Out There

Of course, ask your health care provider first about vaccines and other preventive measures you might need. Ask about making a vaccine schedule to ensure you don't miss any. Pharmacists can also provide vaccines and answer questions about timing and side effects.

Friends and family make a big difference, too. Whether's's providing rides to appointments, helping with prescription pickups, or checking in regularly, supporting older adults helps them stay as healthy as possible.

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