Infections in the elderly are a major health concern because aging affects both the immune system and the body’s ability to respond to illness.
Why the Elderly Are More Susceptible
- Weakened Immune System: Reduced ability to fight infections.
- Comorbidities: Conditions like diabetes, COPD, and heart disease increase risk.
- Malnutrition & Frailty: Poor nutrition weakens defense mechanisms.
- Changes in Body Composition: Alters how drugs are processed.
- Atypical Presentation: Infections may not cause fever or classic symptoms; confusion, weakness, or falls may be the only signs.
Tips:
- Be vigilant for small changes in your health.
- Take early steps to ward off infections.
- Promote greater wellness and quality of life.
How to Lower Your Risk
- Infection Prevention Practices
- Health Monitoring and Screening
- Healthy Lifestyle Habits
- Prioritize Mental & Social Wellbeing
- Maintain Safety at Home
Infection Prevention Strategies
- Practice good hand hygiene
- Stay up to date on vaccinations (see vaccination section below)
- Maintain a clean environment
- Avoid others when you are ill
- Distance yourself from those who are sick
- Use proper respiratory hygiene and cough etiquette
- Wear a mask when appropriate
The Importance of Vaccinations for Older Adults
Vaccinations are among the most effective ways to prevent serious infections in older adults. Staying up to date on all recommended vaccines lowers the risk of severe illness, hospitalizations, and complications from preventable diseases.
Influenza (Flu) Vaccine
- Recommended annually, ideally in September or October
- Adults 65+ should get the high-dose version
- 2025–2026 vaccines in the US are trivalent: targeting Flu A (H1N1, H3N2) and Flu B
Pneumococcal (Pneumonia) Vaccine
- Recommended for adults 50+
- Two main types available; recommendations vary by age and health status
- Booster needs depend on age, health, and vaccine type
- Getting the pneumonia vaccine protects against various pneumococcal diseases (including pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections) and helps reduce the risk of severe outcomes, hospitalizations, and death
RSV Vaccine
- Single lifetime dose recommended
- All adults 75+ should receive it
- Adults 50–74 should receive it if they have chronic health conditions (lung, heart, or weakened immune system)
COVID-19 Vaccine
- Annual vaccination recommended for adults 65+ or anyone at high risk
- Especially important if you have never received the COVID-19 vaccine before
Shingles (Herpes Zoster) Vaccine
- Two-dose series separated by 2–6 months
- Recommended for adults 50 and older
Other vaccines:
Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis) and Hepatitis B may also be advised based on risk factors.
Where to get vaccines:
Provider’s office, pharmacy, health department, or workplace. Ask your provider to record your vaccines in the state or local registry.
Common Infections in the Elderly
- Respiratory Infections
Examples: Pneumonia, Influenza, COVID-19, RSV
Risks: Elderly are more likely to die from respiratory viruses.
Prevention: Vaccinations, hygiene, avoid crowds.
Treatment: Antivirals, antibiotics (when appropriate). - Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
Risks: Common in older adults; risk factors include diabetes and catheter use.
Symptoms: Confusion, urinary changes, fever.
Treatment: Antibiotics, addressing underlying issues, and maintaining hygiene. - Skin and Soft Tissue Infections
Risks: Thinner, more fragile skin, poor circulation.
Examples: Cellulitis, pressure ulcers.
Prevention: Skin care, inspection, proper nutrition.
Treatment: Antibiotics, wound care. - Gastrointestinal Illnesses
Examples: Gastroenteritis, colitis, C. diff.
Symptoms: Diarrhea, abdominal pain, blood in stool.
Prevention: Hand washing, safe food handling, hydration. - Sepsis
Definition: Life-threatening reaction to infection.
Risks: Elderly at much higher risk.
Prevention: Early treatment of infections, vaccinations. - Pneumococcal Disease
Caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae (see vaccine section)
Can lead to pneumonia, meningitis, and bacteremia
Diagnosing infections in older adults is challenging, and early diagnosis and treatment are imperative due to higher risks of complications. Follow good infection prevention practices, stay up to date on vaccines, and be mindful of symptoms to promote wellness and longevity.
