65 or Older? Have You Had Your Pneumonia Vaccination?

One way to save money on health care is to prevent problems in the first place. And one way to do that is to get vaccines.

A recent Savvy Senior column covers the vaccines seniors need, including the pneumococcal vaccination:

Pneumonia causes more than 40,000 deaths in the United States each year, many of which could be prevented by the pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine. Everyone age 65 or older needs to get this one-time vaccination, as well as those younger than 65 who smoke or have chronic health conditions such as asthma, lung and heart disease, diabetes, or a weakened immune system. This vaccination is also covered under Medicare Part B.

Other recommended vaccinations include one for shingles and a special one people 65 and older can get for the flu.

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Leigh Ann Otte is a freelance writer who specializes in health and aging issues. She covers finding and paying for senior care for OurParents. If you have any questions about this post or need help finding senior care options for a loved one, call 1-866-483-4896 to speak with a care advisor in your area.