Flu season reminder: older adults face higher risk, but vaccination and precautions help reduce the danger
Getting the flu isn’t optional for everyone, but the risk of severe infection climbs with age. Experts warn that after age 60, the likelihood of complications grows, including pneumonia—the most common flu complication. Heart attacks and strokes can also be triggered by flu illness. For many seniors, recovery after infection isn’t as quick or complete as it once was, and returning to previous activity levels or independence can be challenging.
Last season (the 2024-2025 flu season) was among the most severe in more than a decade. Preliminary CDC data suggest 610,000 to 1.3 million Americans were hospitalized with the flu, and deaths ranged from 27,000 to 130,000. In recent years, a large share of flu-related deaths and hospitalizations have occurred in people over 65, with estimates holding steady at about 70–85 percent of deaths and 50–70 percent of hospitalizations in this age group.
Key steps to reduce your risk
1) Get a flu shot
An annual vaccination can protect you from the virus, lower your risk of hospitalization, lessen the severity if you do get infected, and help prevent complications. High-dose flu vaccines provide a stronger immune boost and work better for older adults compared with standard vaccines, because they contain more of an ingredient that strengthens the immune response. The flu vaccines (apart from FluMist, which isn’t recommended for older adults) do not contain live virus, so they can’t cause the flu. Timing-wise, waiting until mid-October can help ensure protection lasts through the flu season, which typically runs through May. Vaccines generally offer protection against serious illness for about six months, though this can vary by individual.
2) Steer clear of sneezers and coughers
The flu spreads through droplets when others sneeze or cough, so be mindful of close contact with sick individuals. Masking can be an option, especially if you or someone in your household is at increased risk of severe illness. In addition to age, other conditions—such as asthma, kidney disease, or liver disease—can raise the risk of severe flu, underscoring the importance of avoiding exposure when possible.
Additional context and value
– The season’s impact underscores why vaccination remains a key pillar of public health, particularly for older adults who are more vulnerable to complications.
– If you’re in an at-risk group, discuss the best vaccine option with your healthcare provider, as high-dose vaccines are designed to offer a stronger defense for seniors.
– Protective measures are about more than personal health: reducing transmission helps protect households and communities during peak flu activity.
Summary
The flu poses a bigger threat to people over 60, with pneumonia and cardiovascular complications among the leading concerns. Vaccination, especially with high-dose options for older adults, plus practical exposure-reduction steps like avoiding crowds when ill and masking as needed, can notably reduce the risk of severe illness and help seniors stay more active and independent through the season.
Hopeful note
With proactive vaccination and smart precautions, older adults can navigate the flu season with lower risk of severe outcomes, maintaining health, mobility, and daily routines. If you’re unsure which vaccine is best for you, speak with a healthcare provider to tailor a plan that fits your health profile.