Each year, nearly one million adults age 65 and older are hospitalized with pneumonia, and close to 30% of those seniors pass away within one year, according to the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society. For older adults, a simple cough can turn into something life-threatening. And the risk only increases with age.
That's why pneumonia vaccines for seniors are a critical part of staying well.
Costa Mesa, CA, located in the heart of Orange County and just minutes from Newport Beach, offers a relaxed and health-conscious environment for aging adults. But even in a sunny, active city, health threats like pneumonia don't take time off.
If you're focused on health, safety, and staying out of the hospital, this post will break down what you need to know. Read on to learn why getting vaccinated might be one of the smartest health decisions you can make.
Pneumonia is a lung infection that causes the air sacs to fill with fluid or pus. These sacs, meant to bring oxygen to your body, stop working properly.
Pneumonia might be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi, though most serious cases in older adults come from the bacterium Streptococcus pneumoniae.
As people age, their immune systems often slow down. That makes it harder to fight off infections, especially if they already live with conditions like diabetes, COPD, or heart disease.
For older adults, the risks aren't minor. These infections can lead to permanent lung damage, extended rehabilitation, or secondary infections. Staying informed about flu and pneumonia prevention can help lower these risks significantly.
Vaccines teach your body how to recognize and fight dangerous bacteria. In the case of pneumonia vaccines, your immune system learns to create antibodies against pneumococcal bacteria before it gets the chance to make you sick. That means you'll either avoid getting sick entirely or, if you do get pneumonia, your symptoms are typically less severe.
Getting vaccinated brings several key benefits that are worth noting. These include:
For those with conditions like asthma or diabetes, pneumonia can hit harder and last longer. That's where vaccines play a real role in aging immune support. They don't just help prevent infection; they make recovery easier when illness happens.
In senior living communities that promote wellness and independence, like Coastal Heights in Costa Mesa, pneumonia prevention is part of a broader focus on preventive care for older adults. Access to wellness activities and nutritious meals supports overall health, but vaccination is a step that only you can take for yourself.
Currently, there are two main types of vaccines used to prevent pneumococcal disease. They each work slightly differently and may be used alone or together, depending on your health history.
Pneumonia vaccine types include:
For people who have never received a pneumococcal vaccine before, the CDC recommends a single dose of PCV20, or PCV15, followed by PPSV23 a year later. In that case, PCV15 helps build a base level of protection, and PPSV23 extends it across more bacterial strains.
Some adults may have had earlier versions of these vaccines, like PCV13. If that's true, your doctor might suggest PCV20 as a follow-up dose. The exact plan depends on your health status, vaccination history, and age.
These vaccines don't contain live bacteria. In other words, they can't give you pneumonia. That's a common concern, yet the science is clear; they're designed to protect, not infect.
For accurate adult vaccine tips, it's best to speak with your healthcare provider about what you've had and what you still might need.
According to the CDC, adults age 50 and older should receive a pneumococcal vaccine. Campaigns for senior immunizations in CA regularly remind older adults to check their vaccine status, especially before flu season.
Some people face higher risks of getting seriously ill from pneumonia. You may be at higher risk if you:
People in these groups are more likely to get sick and more likely to suffer long recoveries or severe complications. That means acting early can make a real difference.
Like most vaccines, pneumonia shots can cause some minor side effects. These are usually mild and go away in a day or two. Most people feel well enough to continue with normal routines.
You might notice some of the following:
Serious reactions are very rare. Still, if you've had strong allergic responses to vaccines in the past, be sure to share that with your provider ahead of time.
Vaccines are widely available in Costa Mesa at local pharmacies, clinics, and primary care offices. Walgreens, CVS, and Costco locations in town usually carry both types of pneumonia vaccines. Appointments can often be booked online or by phone.
Residents at Coastal Heights Senior Living can talk with their own healthcare provider and arrange a visit.
Pneumonia vaccines for seniors offer real protection that supports healthy aging and peace of mind. They reduce the risk of serious illness, shorten recovery time, and help avoid complications that can disrupt daily life.
At Coastal Heights Senior Living in Costa Mesa, we encourage proactive health decisions that help residents stay active and independent. From access to wellness-focused programs to our Vibrant Life activities calendar, everything we do supports your well-being. Our community offers comforts like chef-prepared meals, fitness classes, housekeeping, and a pet-friendly lifestyle, all designed with you in mind.
Schedule a tour today and see why Coastal Heights is where your healthiest years can thrive.