According to the CDC, around 33% of Americans will get shingles (or herpes zoster) in their lifetime. While most people who get it only go through shingles once, it's not uncommon to see reoccurrences later on.
This illness may start off with a painful and itchy rash, but it can lead to serious complications. For example, it can cause long-term nerve pain (postherpetic neuralgia, or PHN).
The best way to protect yourself from this illness is to get the shingles vaccine, which is especially important for seniors. Why does it matter for older adults in Dallas, TX, and how can you get it? Read on to find out more.
You know about the shingles symptoms and prevention with the vaccine, but why should you be bothered about taking action? These are the reasons why older adults should get the vaccine.
Shingles happens when the varicella-zoster virus is reactivated; this is the same virus that causes chickenpox. This means that while you may have had chickenpox when you were younger, you're not in the clear just yet.
In fact, the risk of having shingles increases with age, especially after 50. This is because your body goes through immunosenescence, which is the natural weakening of the immune system.
If you have chronic health conditions (such as diabetes, heart disease, or COPD), then you're even more vulnerable.
As we've said, shingles usually begins as a painful rash. However, the real danger is PHN. The resulting nerve pain from PHN can last months or even years.
Not only that, you can go through other complications too, such as:
Shingrix is the vaccine used for shingles, and it's highly effective. In fact, the CDC says that it's over 90% effective at preventing shingles and PHN in adults over 50 who have healthy immune systems.
Even in those who are over 70 and have compromised immune systems, it's at least 68% effective. Better yet is that Shingrix immunity remains high for at least seven years after vaccination.
Also, in comparison to the older Zostavax (which is no longer used), Shingrix is a non-live recombinant vaccine, which makes it safe for those with weakened immune systems.
A study published in Nature.com by Eytine et al. found that seniors who got the shingles vaccine were 20% less likely to develop dementia in the next seven years than those who didn't receive the shot. The theory is that there's reduced inflammation in the brain and less viral reactivation, which can damage neural tissue over time.
If you want to maintain cognitive health and independence, then the vaccine will surely help, as will eating a diet for brain health, which is excellent regarding wellness for older adults.
If you're convinced about the efficacy of adult vaccines for seniors, then the next thing you're wondering is the vaccine schedule for older adults.
One of our top immunization tips for aging is to get two doses of Shingrix, which are 2-6 months apart from each other. However, if you're immunocompromised, you may be advised to get the second dose sooner (as early as one month after the first).
All adults over 50 should get Shingrix, even if you've already had shingles. And if you've had Zostavax before, you should still get this newer shingles vaccine.
If you have chronic illnesses or a weakened immune system, then you should speak with your doctors about the vaccine timing. While not everyone will still be eligible for the shot, you still might be.
Those who are currently sick with moderate or severe illnesses should wait until they're better to receive the vaccine. In addition, you should avoid it if you've had an allergic reaction to Shingrix or any of its ingredients.
For senior health in Dallas, the city is great in regards to vaccines. There are several ways you can get the shingles vaccine. If you live in a supported independent living community, the staff can assist you too.
Most major retail pharmacies will allow you to walk in or book an appointment online. Make sure to bring your Medicare or insurance card.
Options include:
If you're after better continuity of care, then you're better off with local clinics and hospitals. Your two main options here are UT Southwestern Medical Center and Dallas County Health and Human Services (DCHHS).
If you're uninsured, then you can try the Texas Adult Safety Net Program. They offer low-cost vaccines to adults 19 and older (usually $25 per vaccine).
Plus, some community health centers and local pharmacies offer cash discounts. You can also ask about payment plans or assistance programs.
Typically, Medicare Part D covers Shingrix. However, some plans require co-pays, so ask your pharmacy for clarification.
If you have a private insurance plan, then rest easy knowing that most will cover Shingrix, especially for those 50 and over.
Do note that Medicare Part B doesn't cover Shingrix. So, make sure to bring your Part D card.
If you don't already have it, then you should get the shingles vaccine. Not only can it protect you from a painful illness, but it also has the side benefit of lowering your risk for dementia.
So check with your local resources and make an appointment to get the shot. You may experience flu-like symptoms for 1-2 days, but after that, you'll be effectively protected from shingles for almost a decade.
Contact us now if you're interested in senior living in Dallas, TX. Whiterock Court Senior Living was recently renovated in 2023 for a completely transformed look.