TerraBella Fuquay-Varina Blog

Recommended Vaccines for Seniors in Fuquay-Varina: What to Know

Written by Discovery Senior Living | Jul 14, 2025 4:00:00 AM

Are you or a loved one getting older in Fuquay-Varina and wondering about easy ways to stay healthy? Recommended vaccines for seniors are a smart choice to help avoid common illnesses. They keep your energy up and let you enjoy the things you love. 

Vaccines help your body's defense system fight sickness better, especially as we age. CDC experts say these shots lower the chance of tough problems like the flu or pneumonia, which can be harder on people over 65. 

At TerraBella Fuquay-Varina, we create a helpful space where residents do well with meals made by chefs and special Assisted Living and Memory Care help. Our team is always there to support daily tasks like handling meds, and we cheer on good health habits.

A bit of care now means more fun with family, walks in local parks, or quiet days without stress. Want to learn more? Let's look at what recommended vaccines for seniors can offer you.

Flu Shot for Aging Adults: Why It's a Yearly Must-Have

The leaves start changing in Fuquay-Varina, and suddenly everyone's talking about cold and flu season. For aging adults, the flu shot is your first line of defense against that pesky virus. We recommend it every year because the flu changes, and so does the vaccine to match it.

If you're 65 or older, experts prefer a higher-dose version to give your immune system an extra boost.

The flu can lead to tough complications like pneumonia or even heart issues in seniors. Getting the flu shot for aging adults drops your chance of getting sick by up to 60 percent in a good year. 

If you do catch it, the symptoms often stay milder. Aim for September or October to be ready before the peak hits around winter.

It's a quick visit to your doctor or a local spot, and it fits right into the senior immunization schedule. 

Pneumonia Vaccine for Seniors: Building Strong Defenses

The pneumonia vaccine guards against pneumococcal bacteria, which can cause:

  • Pneumonia
  • Meningitis
  • Bloodstream infections

In 2025, the CDC lowered the starting age to 50, but it's a must for everyone 65 and up.

There are a couple of types: PCV20 is a one-and-done option for many, or you might need PPSV23 depending on your history. It works by teaching your body to fight these germs before they cause trouble. 

The vaccine can prevent up to 75 percent of serious cases in seniors. If you have conditions like diabetes or heart disease, it's even more important.

Shingles Protection: Safeguarding Against Hidden Threats

Shingles might sound like a roof problem, but it's actually a painful rash from the same virus that causes chickenpox. If you've had chickenpox, that virus can wake up later in life, especially after 50. 

That's why the shingles vaccine is key for seniors. It's called Shingrix, and it takes two doses, about two to six months apart. 

This vaccine cuts your risk by over 90 percent and helps avoid long-lasting nerve pain that some folks get. Did you know that about one in three older adults might face shingles without it? It's not fun, with symptoms like burning skin and blisters that can last weeks. 

The CDC says get it even if you've had shingles before, as it can strike again.

Tdap and Boosters: Keeping Up with Essential Updates

Let's talk about those everyday risks, like a cut from gardening or helping with grandkids. The Tdap vaccine covers:

  • Tetanus
  • Diphtheria
  • Pertussis (whooping cough)

It's a booster you need every ten years. For seniors, it's extra helpful if you're around babies, since whooping cough can spread fast.

Tetanus hides in soil and can cause muscle stiffness if it gets into a wound. Diphtheria affects breathing, and pertussis brings harsh coughing fits. One Tdap shot as an adult, then Td boosters keep you covered.

We think of it as routine maintenance for your health, much like checking your smoke alarms. Staying current means you can enjoy hobbies without those "what if" thoughts.

Emerging Options: COVID-19 and RSV Vaccines for Added Peace of Mind

With new bugs making headlines, vaccines like COVID-19 and RSV are game-changers for seniors. 

For COVID-19 in 2025, folks 65 and up should get two doses of the updated shot, six months apart, to handle the latest variants. It lowers severe illness risks and keeps hospital visits down.

RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus, hits hard in winter and can lead to breathing troubles. The vaccine is recommended for those 75 and older, or 60-74 with certain health issues. 

These newer shots fit into the senior immunization schedule as extras for protection. They're safe alongside others, and side effects are usually mild, like a headache or fatigue.

Preventive Care in Fuquay-Varina: Local Ways to Stay Protected

Living in Fuquay-Varina means great options for preventive care right around the corner. Spots like the Wake County Southern Regional Center at 130 N. Judd Parkway NE offer vaccines by appointment. They handle everything from flu shots to pneumonia vaccines for seniors.

You can also swing by CVS MinuteClinic on 605 N. Main Street or AFC Urgent Care on 1298 N. Main St. for quick visits. Harris Teeter Pharmacy has COVID-19 shots too. These places make preventive care in Fuquay-Varina easy and friendly.

Chat with your doctor to tailor it, and remember, staying on top means more enjoyment in our charming town.

Recommended Vaccines for Seniors: Your Path to Lasting Health

Staying on top of recommended vaccines for seniors can feel like a small step, but it packs a big punch for your well-being. As we age, mixing these vaccines with everyday habits like eating well and staying active makes aging and wellness even better. 

Here at TerraBella Fuquay-Varina, we make it easier to focus on preventive care by offering a warm community where chef-prepared dining and caring Assisted Living and Memory Care services support your daily life. We create a lifestyle that lifts up your golden years, with helpful caregivers always there to lend a hand with things like medication management, so you can thrive without the hassle.

Come visit TerraBella Fuquay-Varina today and see how we can be part of your wellness journey.