New study explores vaccine rates for older adults

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. (WVIR) - Many of those who need protection most against viruses are not getting the help they need.

“Vaccines are one of the best protections we have against many infections,” said UVA Health Geriatrician Doctor Laurie Archbald-Pannone.

A new study at UVA Health looks into what is holding back from getting their vaccines.

“When we think about vaccinations, often we think about children or babies or young adults getting vaccinated. But it’s also very important that older adults are up to date with. Vaccines as well,” Archbald-Pannone.

Only 15% of Americans ages 50 and older and 25% of Americans ages 65 and older are up to date on all recommended vaccines. The study revealed two reasons for the low numbers.

“What we found from our study and from the patients that we worked with is that a lot of patients didn’t know they weren’t up to date on their vaccinations. They Didn’t know what they were supposed to have,” said Archbald-Pannone.

The second reason has to do with patients listening to their doctors.

“Patients said that a strong recommendation from their healthcare provider was really one of the top ways that they would consider getting a vaccine knowing that their health care provider was recommending them as an individual,” said Archbald-Pannone.

The hope is that by spreading this new information, vaccination rates will increase. This is vital in protecting older adults because a person’s immune system weakens as they age.

“The key is really to try to get the message out, said Archbald-Pannone, “Trying to empower patients to ask their healthcare provider about their vaccination status and the recommendations. And then reminding clinicians to ask their patients and to have that discussion as well.”

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