Flu Impacts Young and Old – Know Symptoms and Complications

For many years, we've known that people 65 years and older are at greater risk of severe complications from the flu compared with young, healthy adults because human immune defenses become weaker with age. 

Now, in the age of COVID-19, the virus crisis gets more complicated as we enter the flu season. Experts are sayings it's crucial to get vaccinated for the flu. As more of us are now getting out and less fearful of COVID-19 because of vaccination, we face other viral infections, including the flu.

We know that the flu vaccine is safe and effective and has been used for a very long time. The CDC recommends everyone six months old and older get a flu vaccination.

Those Age 65 and Older are at Greater Risk

While flu seasons can vary in severity, people 65 years and older bear the most significant burden of severe flu disease during most seasons. For example, in recent years, it's estimated that between 71 percent and 85 percent of seasonal flu-related deaths have occurred in people 65 years and older, and between 54 percent and 70 percent of seasonal flu-related hospitalizations have occurred among people in that age group. So influenza is often quite serious for people 65 and older. The CDC says over 600 children died from the flu in 2021, so it impacts both older people and the young.

COVID-19 still remains a concern. COVID-19 is also a respiratory type disease and is most dangerous for older people and those people with other health issues.

Vaccination is Essential for Health

Remember, vaccination is vital for people 65 years and older because they are at high risk for flu complications. Flu vaccines are updated each season to keep up with changing viruses, and immunity wanes over a year, so annual vaccination is needed to ensure the best possible protection against influenza.

Aging is Not a Disease. Consequences of Declining Health and Aging are Real

There is no vaccine to prevent the financial costs and burdens of aging. A plan for a successful future retirement should include Long-Term Care Insurance. 

As we age, we face many health issues, aging issues, and even accidents. People require long-term health care services due to an illness, accident, or the impact of aging. We all will face declining health and should prepare for its consequences on family and finances.

Costs of Long-Term Health Care is Rising Rapidly

The cost of long-term health care will impact your 401(k), IRA, 403(b), and other savings. Before you retire, add affordable Long-Term Care Insurance to your retirement plan. An LTC Insurance policy is your vaccine to the physical, emotional, and financial burdens of long-term health care. Getting a policy is easy and affordable. Plus, several different types of plans are available. 

The consequences of long-term health care affect more than just our pocketbook. Family members often find themselves in the position of being a caregiver for an older parent. The job is demanding physically and emotionally. 

Most people obtain coverage in their 50s.