Vaccination programs for older adults in an era of demographic change.

ABSTRACT:

Objectives

Populations are aging worldwide. This paper summarizes some of the challenges and opportunities due to the increasing burden of infectious diseases in an aging population.

Results

Older adults typically suffer elevated morbidity from infectious disease, leading to increased demand for healthcare resources and higher healthcare costs. Preventive medicine, including vaccination can potentially play a major role in preserving the health and independence of older adults. However, this potential of widespread vaccination is rarely realized. Here, we give a brief overview of the problem, discuss concrete obstacles and the potential for expanded vaccination programs to promote healthy aging.

Conclusion

The increasing healthcare burden of infectious diseases expect

SUBMITTER: Doherty TM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5972173 | biostudies-literature | 2018

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature