Aging Changes in Immunity

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Disease prevention

Just as routine immunizations are important to prevent illness in children, a few routine immunizations are important as we get older. Adult tetanus (Td) immunizations should be given every 10 years (a booster may be given sooner if there is a "dirty" wound).

Your health care provider may recommend other immunizations, including pneumovax (to prevent pneumonia or its complications), flu vaccine, hepatitis immunization, or others. These optional immunizations are not necessary for ALL older people, but are appropriate for some.

Keeping generally healthy also helps. Maintaining good health involves the following:

• Exercise.
• Eat a well-balanced diet.
• Stop smoking.
• Minimize alcohol use. Moderate drinking seems to have some health benefits, but excessive drinking can cause serious damage.
• Use safety measures to avoid falls and other injuries.