Holistic health is more than just taking care of your physical being — it is about feeling supported, valued, and truly alive. Instead of treating symptoms, holistic primary care pays careful attention to the health of all parts of you. This is especially imperative for seniors, who often face mental and emotional health issues due to an increase in physical health issues. Holistic primary care honors the individuality of every senior’s health, providing them with the care they deserve to nourish their mind, body, and soul. Keep reading to learn more!

What is Holistic Primary Care?

Have you ever felt like you are only seen for your health ailments, and not for the whole person you are? This feeling is the difference between primary care and holistic primary care. Regular primary care helps you understand, manage, and treat your physical health conditions but seldom focuses on the effects your condition may have on your mental and emotional health, or how these parts of your health impact your life in general. Holistic primary care, on the other hand, has a focus on the whole person. 

What does this mean, exactly? Instead of only focusing on treating physical health conditions, holistic primary care looks at your physical health, emotions, lifestyle, and environment to help make informed decisions on keeping you healthy and happy. Instead of taking care of problems as they arise, holistic primary care aims to prevent issues before they begin and help you live the best life you possibly can, in all areas. It is like having a mentor and friend cheering you on, making sure you are not only surviving but are truly thriving! 

It is important to note a common misconception that holistic medicine and herbal medicine equate to one another — this is not true. Although these terms are often used interchangeably, herbal medicine or remedies refer to replacing modern medicine with herbs, botanicals, or detoxes [1]. Although holistic primary care physicians may incorporate some natural remedies, this is not all that holistic care is. Holistic primary care encompasses so much more than this and targets more parts of the individual, which is vital to understand when considering holistic primary care. 

The Core Principles of Holistic Primary Care

Holistic primary care centers around a handful of core principles, including: 

• Prevention: Instead of waiting for health issues to arise to start treating them, holistic primary care focuses on preventing ailments before they have a chance to show up. To take preventive measures, holistic primary care implements this through preventive screenings, regular check-ups, and health education.

• Patient-Centered Care: In holistic primary care, patients aren’t just told what to do about their health and aren’t expected to listen without question. Instead, they are active participants in their health journey. Providers listen to their concerns, answer questions, and take their preferences and goals seriously when creating a health plan and making important decisions. This often results in higher patient satisfaction and positive attitudes towards primary care [2]. 

• Multiple Facets of Health: Holistic primary care does not view health as simply physical health. It involves the whole person and considers the many facets of health, including physical, mental, emotional, cultural, spiritual, and environmental factors. By understanding a patient’s entire health, the healthcare provider can make more informed decisions based on their unique needs. 

• Integration of Modalities: Holistic primary care combines conventional medicine with alternative and novel therapies, which are constantly evolving and improving as the years go by. For example, healthcare physicians who practice holistic primary care may recommend acupuncture, nutrition counseling, or meditation based on a patient’s specific needs and concerns [3]. 

The Benefits of Holistic Primary Care for Seniors

There are many benefits of holistic primary care for seniors, including but not limited to: 

• Empowerment: By helping patients understand their needs and giving them an active role in their healthcare journey, holistic primary care providers give patients a sense of empowerment and confidence. Patients can feel sure that they have full control over their health with holistic primary care. 

• Strong Relationship Between Patient and Provider: Patients are more likely to trust and enjoy the time spent with their primary care provider when the provider establishes active communication and takes the patient’s needs into account when making decisions. This increases a patient’s satisfaction with their care and improves their willingness to make regular appointments because they feel their provider has their best interest in mind for their overall health. 

• Cost-Effectiveness: Implementing preventive measures and addressing health concerns and dangers early makes holistic care cost-effective. By taking precautions and reducing the risk of developing serious health conditions, patients may avoid having to pay high prices for treatments and hospitalizations in the future [4]. 

Comprehensive Approach to Health

Holistic health and primary care encompasses multiple facets of health, including: 

• Physical Health: This part of your overall health involves anything that has to do with the effective functionality of your body. This includes the health of all your bodily systems, such as the circulatory, cardiovascular, skeletal, renal, nervous, digestive, and immune systems. 

• Mental Health: This part of health pertains to your psychological well-being, influencing how you think, feel, and behave in everyday life. This involves the potential presence of mental disorders, how you deal with stress, and how you perceive the world. 

• Emotional Health: This part of your health is characterized by how well you manage your emotions, cope with negative feelings, and maintain a positive outlook on life. It involves being aware of your emotions and expressing them healthily. 

• Spiritual Health: This part of your health refers to your sense of purpose, meaning, and connection to something larger than yourself. This could mean religious faith for some, but can also pertain to personal values or a connection with nature and humanity. 

• Social Health: Finally, this part of your overall health has to do with the quality of your relationships with those around you, your interactions, and your sense of belonging to a community. 

Personalized Care Plans

Holistic primary care physicians work hard to create care plans tailored to each patient’s specific needs. For example, if a senior patient has had a history of joint pain and trouble with mobility, their physician may recommend a regimen of light physical exercises and weekly visits to a physical therapist to maintain this area of their health and reduce the risk of these pains developing into something harder to treat. They may recommend another patient who has reported feeling lonely lately to attend some community events or join a club at their local YMCA. And, they may advise another patient who finds themselves getting agitated and crying often to seek help from a mental health therapist. Notice how these care plans are all different because they target personal areas of a person’s health that may be at risk. This is what holistic primary care is all about—individual needs, goals, and preferences. 

It is important that patients feel educated and inclined to speak up if they don’t feel comfortable with a certain health decision their primary care doctor makes. For example, if a doctor recommends a medication for pre-diabetes, but the patient feels strongly against it, the doctor and the patient as a team may make a plan for the patient to try a strict healthy diet and check in after a few weeks to see if symptoms decreased. This way, the patient’s health is being taken care of while still having them be an active decision maker in their health journey. 

Preventive Care and Disease Management

Holistic health focuses deeply on preventative care and disease management to promote wellness, longevity, and quality of life. This means that patients will be encouraged to make regular check-ups and health screening appointments to catch any potential illnesses early. This also encompasses managing chronic conditions effectively, often with a combination of medication and lifestyle changes. 

Coordination of Care

Holistic primary care ensures quality coordination of care, which means there is seamless communication between the patient and their healthcare provider[s]. This coordination extends beyond their primary care physician. Primary care physicians will assess their patient’s needs and coordinate a care plan with other specialists, such as physical therapists, mental health counselors, optometrists, cardiologists, and more, to ensure that their patient receives the specialized care they need. 

The primary care physician will act as the central point of contact, overseeing their patient’s treatment plan and collaborating with specialists in their network. Patients can expect to receive regular updates about their care and be actively involved in decision-making regarding their treatment. 

This process assures patients that there will be no fragmentation in their healthcare delivery, allowing them to be confident in their healthcare system.  

Lifestyle Management and Education

Because holistic primary care looks beyond the realm of physical health and into the various parts of a person’s overall well-being, patients will gain knowledge on healthy habits and behaviors through their appointments. Holistic primary care physicians are trained to provide educated insight into the behaviors and practices their patients should perform to optimize their health. They will also champion seniors to take control of their health, confirming that they can make changes to their lifestyle that can positively impact their well-being. 

One of the most important practices that holistic primary care physicians provide is resources for self-care and self-management. Seniors will learn about all the possibilities of treatments for their condition so that they can learn how to manage their condition on their own (of course, with supervision from their primary care provider.) This gives seniors a sense of autonomy and control over their bodies. These resources include written pamphlets, health coaching, self-tracking tools, and/or wellness classes. 

Emotional and Mental Health Support

Although the media often paints being a senior citizen as a stress-free time where seniors can relax and feel content with their lives, this is not the case for all. In reality, many seniors face mental health concerns stemming from loneliness and isolation, a perceived lack of purpose, the death of family and/or friends, and health-related stress [5]. 

These mental health concerns can be effectively managed with proper treatment recommendations, such as therapy, medication, and positive support systems. Mental and emotional support is vital for overall health, which is why this is an important pillar of holistic primary care. 

Holistic Primary Care Physicians for Seniors at Greater Good

Greater Good Health commits to providing quality holistic primary care for all seniors. Our holistic primary care physicians offer specialized services to seniors, ensuring that they receive the personal care they deserve. Contact us today to learn more about holistic primary care at Greater Good Health!

So, you’ve decided to take charge of your health and schedule an appointment for a preventive health screening. First off, give yourself a pat on the back! Making smart decisions about your health, especially as a senior, is something to be proud of. Although you are on the right path, you may feel confused or anxious about your preventive health screening, especially if it is your first one. Don’t worry, this is normal. But, we are here to help. In this blog post, we will walk you through what to expect during a senior preventive health screening, from the moment you step in to sign in at the front desk until you’re out the door. 

What is a Preventive Health Screening?

If this is your first preventive health screening, you may be unsure of what this appointment entails. A “preventive health screening” can be considered an umbrella term encompassing a group of tests that can help provide insights into your well-being and raise awareness for any concerns. The tests involved in preventive health checkups and screenings may differ depending on patient characteristics, but the most common often include [1]: 

• Blood Pressure Screening: This screening checks if you have high blood pressure, which can lead to serious health issues like heart disease and strokes. There are often minimal noticeable symptoms of high blood pressure, so it is important to get it screened. 
• Cholesterol Test: High cholesterol can increase your chances of heart disease and strokes. This test measures your levels of LDL, or “bad” cholesterol, along with HDL, or “good cholesterol, and triglycerides. 
• Colorectal Cancer Screening: Colorectal cancer is extremely common, but preventable with early detection through screening methods like colonoscopies, stool tests, and sigmoidoscopies. 
• Mammography: Breast cancer screenings, or mammograms, are X-rays of the breast tissue that can detect breast cancer. The earlier breast cancer is detected, the more treatable it is. Doctors recommend that women get regular mammograms starting at age 40 or earlier, depending on their risk factors. They also encourage self-examinations. 
• Pap Smear: The pap test, or pap smear, is performed to detect abnormal cells in the cervix, which can be a sign of the development of cervical cancer. Women should begin getting regular pap smears each year starting at age 21 and continuing until age 65. 
• Prostate Cancer Screening: Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests measure the level of PSA in your blood. A heightened PSA level could indicate prostate cancer, although test results should be discussed with a healthcare provider. 
• Bone Density Screening: Bone density scans assess the risk of fractures and/or diagnose osteoporosis. These tests are performed on women 65 and older and men 70 and older. 
• Diabetes Screening: This screening may be a fasting blood sugar test, oral glucose tolerance test, or hemoglobin A1c test. The early detection and treatment of diabetes can help prevent heart disease, kidney disease, and nerve damage. 

Detecting potential issues early is imperative to properly take care of your health. The sooner you screen, the better — many disorders can be properly treated and managed when detected in the early stages. 

The Importance of Preventive Health Screenings for Older Adults

Being a senior comes with many health hardships. Seniors are more susceptible to illnesses and disorders due to weakened immune systems [2], which makes it especially important for them to get properly and regularly screened for various disorders and diseases. 

It may feel like a pain to get all these tests, but in the end, it will be well worth the time and effort it takes to get screened. Wondering if your test will detect a disorder can feel scary, but not knowing and having your health dwindle is even scarier. Preventive screenings can detect issues early and give you the chance to intervene and mitigate the risks of more dangerous issues while you still can. This can greatly improve your quality of life, as well as the longevity of your life. 

What Do Preventive Health Screenings Look For?

Senior citizen’s preventive health checkups and screenings aim to detect any warning signs of serious issues in older adults. For example, cholesterol tests examine if your cholesterol levels have risen from normal to heightened, which increases your chance of heart disease and other ailments [3]. By knowing that your cholesterol levels are raised, your doctor can step in and provide treatment tips, such as changes in diet, or prescribe medication so that you can get your levels back to normal and avoid developing serious disorders. 

Common conditions targeted by preventive health screenings include but are not limited to high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, cancer, osteoporosis, vision and hearing loss, cognitive dysfunction, and infections. Comprehensive screenings, which encompass multiple medical tests and evaluations, promote proactive overall health and reduce future health risks. By staying up to date with your comprehensive screenings and a senior, you can be sure that you know what health conditions you must pay attention to, if any. It can give seniors peace of mind, a proactive mindset, and increased life longevity. 

What Happens at a Senior Preventive Health Checkup?

If you have never had a senior preventive health checkup, have no fear! Below is a guide to what you can expect at your first appointment [4]: 

Medical History Review

The healthcare provider will first review your medical history, including past illnesses, surgeries, medications, and family medical history. This will help them gather important information for a more comprehensive and personalized assessment of your health needs. Make sure to bring up any health conditions and/or concerns you have at this time!

Physical Examination

Next, the healthcare provider will check your vitals, such as blood pressure, heart rate, temperature, weight, and height. They will then begin a thorough physical examination of the heart, lungs, abdomen, skin, and other bodily symptoms. They may ask you to report if you feel any pain or tenderness in these areas, or if you have had any trouble with specific bodily functions. Seniors are also assessed for mobility, balance, and cognitive function. 

Blood Tests and Urinalysis

The healthcare provider will likely request a blood and urine test. For the blood test, the physician will clean the area on your arm with antiseptic, use a small needle to collect a sample of blood, and then bandage the area. Blood tests are quick and not painful—they should feel like a normal immunization shot. For the urine test, the physician will request that you urinate in a clean container. After each of the samples is obtained, the physician will analyze the results and report any areas of concern to you. 

The purpose of blood and urine tests is to detect medical conditions. These tests can reveal important information about your overall health that the doctor may not be able to detect during the physical examination. The results will give insight into the functionality of your organs or changes in organ function over time [5]. 

Additionally, seniors often take multiple medications to manage chronic conditions. Blood tests can monitor the effects of these medications and make sure that dosages are effective and appropriate. 

Screening for Chronic Diseases

Depending on your age, gender, and individual risk factors, the healthcare provider may perform a variety of screening tests at this time of the appointment or may encourage you to schedule them sometime soon at a different office. It is important that you listen to your doctor’s advice when it comes to screening recommendations, as these tests ensure you detect any health scares early for effective management. Most screenings 

Importance of early detection for effective management. Most screening tests are performed every 1 to 3 years [6], but the frequency and methods of screening tests differ from person to person. 

Discussion

After the test results are back, you and your healthcare provider will have a consultation on any important takeaways they received from the test. These may be things to look out for regarding existing health ailments, new diagnoses, or general tips for your overall health. You should feel encouraged to bring up any questions you may have during this discussion. After all, it’s called a discussion for a reason — it should be a back-and-forth conversation between you and your healthcare physicians to address all the needs and concerns you and they may have. The end goal of this discussion is to create a personalized preventive care plan to help you work towards a future with reduced health concerns.

When to Schedule a Preventive Health Care Screening

Scheduling regular preventive healthcare screenings depends on many personal factors, which means it is always the best bet to ask your healthcare provider for advice on how often to schedule screenings based on your individual health needs. Your needs will be determined based on your age, gender, family history, and existing conditions. 

It is a straightforward process to schedule a preventive healthcare screening. First, call your healthcare provider and discuss the screening. They will answer any questions you have about the screening, potential costs, and any preparation that needs to be done before your appointment. Next, confirm your coverage for the screening by calling your insurance provider. Many preventive screenings are covered by insurance, but it is always better to double-check beforehand to avoid any unexpected costs. Then, schedule your appointment by calling your healthcare provider’s office or visiting your online patient portal. Follow any preparation instructions given by the provider, which may include fasting or avoiding certain medications. Finally, attend the screening appointment and a follow-up, and maintain communication with your doctor if you have questions. 

Senior Preventive Care Services at Greater Good Health

At Greater Good Health, your health and access to care are our top priorities. We commit to personalized and comprehensive care for seniors. It can feel scary navigating healthcare on your own as a senior, which is why partnering with a trusted healthcare provider for preventive screenings is so important. Greater Good Health offers primary care for seniors, including preventive screenings. Find a Greater Good Health primary care clinic near you, contact us with any questions, and take charge of your health today!

As Spring rolls around, many seniors look forward to spending more time outside, taking strolls through their neighborhoods lined by blooming flowers. The warmer months can be a wonderful time for seniors to get active and increase their well-being by spending more time in the sun, but one factor poses a danger to seniors wishing to be out and about more often: the risk of falling. Falls, both inside and outside the home, are more than a minor slip-up for older adults. Although younger individuals may quickly recover from a tumble, seniors can become seriously injured. Keep reading to learn more about how falls affect seniors and how to prevent them, both inside and outside the house!

Understanding the Impacts of Falling

According to the Centers for Disease Control, about 36 million falls are reported among seniors each year, which leads to more than 32,000 deaths [1]. Falls often lead to injuries resulting in increased chronic pain, limited mobility, and a loss of a sense of independence for seniors. The fear of falling can also cause the following:

• Physical Injuries: Falls can result in various physical injuries, ranging from minor bruises and cuts to more severe injuries such as fractures, sprains, and head trauma. Seniors who experience fractures, particularly hip fractures, often require hospitalization and may face long-term implications on overall health. Over 95% of hip fractures are caused by falling [2]—think of how many injuries can be prevented by taking preventative measures against falling!

• Emotional and Psychological Effects: Falls can take a toll on seniors’ emotional well-being. Once seniors experience a serious fall, they may feel consumed by fear and anxiety related to falling again. This can lead to a lack of confidence, reduced self-esteem, and a heightened state of vulnerability. Not only can these feelings be distressing, but they can restrict the daily activities and social interactions of seniors, or lead to them avoiding normal behaviors, which can lead to a decline in their overall quality of life. 

• Loss of Independence: Many seniors wish to maintain a sense of independence, as it factors into their sense of confidence and autonomy. However, falls can make independence hard to maintain. When injuries related to falls are developed, seniors may require assistance with daily activities. They may need help from loved ones, mobility aids, and even long-term care. Although there is nothing inherently wrong with seniors relying on assistance from caregivers, the loss of independence may be emotionally challenging for seniors. These challenges may lead to feelings of frustration, helplessness, and a sense of burden on loved ones. 

• Financial Burden:  Falls often need medical intervention, including visits to the emergency room, hospital stays, and rehabilitation services. These services can be financially demanding on seniors and their families, especially those who are already struggling with money. 

Tips for Fall Prevention Inside the Home

As many seniors spend the majority of their time inside their home, it is important to first tackle fall-proofing the house. One of the first steps in fall prevention is the identification of potential hazards within the home environment. You can start by considering areas where falls commonly occur, like staircases, bathrooms, and poorly lit areas. Also, take into account slippery surfaces, loose rugs, or floors that are cluttered. By being aware of these hazards, we can then take necessary precautions to reduce the risk of them. Here are some tips on modifying your home environment into one that is safer:

• Install adequate lighting: Ensure that your home is well-lit by installing adequate lighting, especially in hallways, staircases, and entryways. Replace dim light bulbs with brighter lighting options. This will decrease the chance of falls due to not being able to properly see surroundings. 

• Clear clutter and maintain a tidy living space: Remove any unnecessary items or obstacles, especially on the floor. Keep your floors clear of highly-trip-able items, like loose wires and cords. 

• Secure loose flooring: Loose carpets and rugs are common culprits for falls. Secure these with hefty double-sided tape. Replace any uneven or damaged flooring as soon as possible. 

• Install handrails and grab bars: Using handrails on both sides of staircases and grab bars in bathrooms near toilets, showers, and bathtubs reduces the risk of falls in these areas. These supportive fixtures should be used each time. 

• Utilize non-slip mats: Placing non-slip mats or grip liners underneath rugs will help prevent them from slipping. You can also consider removing rugs altogether, especially in areas in which you walk a lot. Pay extra attention to placing these mats where things could get slippery with water, as well, such as the bathroom or kitchen floors. 

Tips for Fall Prevention Outside

Seniors may think that as long as they are taking a leisurely walk on a normal surface, falls will not happen outside. However, falls are extremely common, and the harsh impact of a sidewalk or road can be detrimental to a senior’s health. Here are some tips one can use to reduce the chance of falling outside: 

• Wear appropriate shoes: Choosing shoes that provide good arch support and traction can save you from a fall. Avoid shoes with high heels or wedges, as well as ones with smooth soles, while walking outside. Athletic sneakers that fit correctly are often the best bet for seniors!

• Use a cane or walker: Having a cane or walker to support you can help seniors tremendously with preventing falls. Make sure that the aid is in good condition and working properly before using it. 

• Stay mindful of your surroundings and take your time: Not only will mindfulness make your walks more enjoyable and immersive, but it will also ensure that you are fully aware of your surroundings when on a stroll. This can prevent falls due to tripping on something on the ground, walking into a pole/tree, or slipping into a puddle. Take your time when walking—taking a slow and leisurely route can help you stay mindful more easily. 

• Pay attention to the weather: Seniors should avoid walking outside when weather could cause slips, like rain, snow, or sleet. They should also choose to take walks during the day and/or when it is bright out, to avoid falling due to not being able to see clearly. 

Other tips for preventing falls include:

• Exercise regularly. Engaging in regular exercise and physical activities can help improve balance, strength, and flexibility. These skills reduce the likelihood of falls [3]. Exercises like strength and resistance training target major muscle groups to help build strength and improve stability. Balance and coordination exercises, like Tai Chi or yoga, can enhance equilibrium and body awareness. These activities focus on maintaining balance while performing controlled movements. Finally, walking and aerobic activities, like swimming or cycling, can help improve cardiovascular health and overall fitness. 

• Review and manage medications. Certain medications have side effects like dizziness, drowsiness, or impaired balance, which can increase the risk of falls. To mitigate this, regularly review your medications and their side effects with your primary care provider. Always follow prescribed guidelines for taking these medications, and avoid skipping doses or self-adjusting, as this can increase the chance of side effects occurring. If you experience any side effects, contact your primary care provider immediately. 

• Get regular vision and hearing checks. Impaired vision and hearing can significantly increase the risk of falls. To combat this, schedule regular vision and hearing exams. Address any vision or hearing changes at these exams. 

1. Seek support. Open communication with your primary care provider is vital for fall prevention. They can help provide guidance, assess your particular risks, and offer personal advice. Always let your doctor in on any past falls or near-fall experiences, so they can conduct a thorough evaluation. Describe your living situation to them, including any fall hazards you have identified. Your primary care provider can then offer additional recommendations and resources for home modifications.

Guidance on Preventing Falls at Home with Greater Good

Preventing falls at home is crucial for the safety and well-being of seniors. By recognizing the impacts of falls, both physical and emotional, seniors can gain a deeper understanding of why fall prevention is of utmost importance. When it comes to fall prevention, every effort counts. From simple modifications to more significant lifestyle adjustments, each step taken toward creating a safer environment makes a difference. To learn more about preventing falls at home, speak with a provider at Greater Good Health by scheduling an appointment today.

Happy Spring! This is the season of growth and renewal, which means it’s the perfect time for seniors to dedicate time to tending to their wellness. By staying active, managing health ailments/allergies, and nurturing mental health, seniors can get themselves into a positive headspace and healthy physical condition to enjoy the warm weather and sunny days ahead. Keep reading to learn more!

Staying Active in the Spring

• Enjoying the Outdoors: The short winter days are long gone, which means there’s more daylight and time outdoors to enjoy. Take advantage of this, and get your Vitamin D by spending time out in the sunshine! Vitamin D promotes healthy bones, helps with muscle mobility, and plays a role in maintaining a healthy immune system [1], which are all issues that seniors tend to struggle with. Some examples of outdoor activities that may be fun for seniors to enjoy are picnics, walks, gardening, swimming, and tennis/pickleball (if your health permits.) Spending time outdoors is great for senior health, but it is imperative to remember to take precautions against sun damage. Always wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30 on any exposed skin, protect your eyes with sunglasses, and wear a sunhat for extra protection. 
• Low-Impact Exercises: These simple exercises are a great way to stay active in the Spring, as you can do many of them outdoors in the nice weather. Low-impact exercises encompass movements that don’t put major strain or impact on your joints against the ground [2]. These exercises include walking, yoga, tai chi, swimming, cycling, and more. Remember to wear proper shoes when doing these exercises—ones with arch support and traction soles. Additionally, be aware of your outdoor surroundings and do these exercises in a safe place. If you prefer to complete these exercises indoors, you can do that as well! 

Managing Seasonal Allergies

• Understanding Allergies: Experiencing seasonal allergies can put a damper on one’s ability to enjoy Spring. One may feel anxious about going outside often where allergens are present, which can cause them to feel avoidant and isolated. Understanding your allergies is important to know how to manage them. You can receive an allergy test from your doctor, which will let you know which allergen(s) are causing you trouble. The most common types of seasonal allergies are pollen, ragweed, burning bush, and mugwort [3]. However, do not assume you know what your allergy is—it is always safer to get tested. Common allergy symptoms include congestion, sneezing, itchy eyes/nose/throat, runny nose/eyes, post-nasal drip, coughing, and fatigue [4]. If you experience these allergy symptoms, and find they get worse in the Spring, speak with your doctor. 
• Checking Allergen Counts and Planning Ahead: Fortunately, there are great tools out there, like sites that track allergen counts on given days so that you can plan your activities out ahead of time. For example, if you are allergic to pollen and see that the pollen count is high for a day you were planning a picnic, it may be better to reschedule. Allergen count trackers help you make informed decisions on when to stay inside so that you don’t have to resort to always staying inside. 
• Allergy Management: There are a handful of tools out there to help you manage your allergies. Over-the-counter medications, like Zyrtec or Allegra, can help alleviate the symptoms of allergies so you can still enjoy the Spring. Some medications target specific areas of concern, like nasal sprays for those who suffer from congestion, that you can try. However, make sure to consult your doctor before introducing a new allergy medication into your intake. 

Nurturing Mental Health

• Mood-Boosting Activities: Seniors may have faced low moods during the winter months due to the lack of sunlight and seasonal depression. Although the sunshine and longer days that come with Spring may automatically boost your mood, many seniors may still struggle to get back into the flow of positivity. Mood-boosting activities, like nature walks, arts and crafts, meditation, and volunteering can help amplify one’s outlook on life and optimism while keeping them busy. 
• Staying Connected: Socializing and spending time with loved ones is always important for one’s mental well-being, and Spring is the perfect time to plan fun events for you all to enjoy together. Whether it is a group walk in the park, a pool day, or simply drinking lemonade in your backyard, the great weather provides ample chances for socializing, which helps combat feelings of loneliness and isolation. 

By embracing the Spring and making the most out of its opportunities, seniors can improve both their physical and mental health. To learn more about senior health, speak with a provider at Greater Good Health by scheduling an appointment today. Warm wishes for this warm season!

As we age, our immune system naturally weakens, making us more susceptible to infections and diseases [1]. This is why older adults need to receive recommended vaccinations. Vaccines not only protect the individual from potentially life-threatening illnesses, but they also help prevent the spread of disease to others in the community. It is important to understand the necessary vaccines for older individuals and how they help boost our immune system to support overall well-being.

How Does the Immune System Weaken With Age?

Cellular senescence, a process where cells lose their ability to divide and function properly, plays a role in the decline of immune cell function [2]. The thymus, crucial for T-cell maturation, shrinks and becomes less active, leading to reduced production of key immune cells. Additionally, B-cells, responsible for antibody production, may become less efficient, leaving older individuals more susceptible to infections. Chronic inflammation associated with aging further hampers the immune system’s effectiveness.

Why are Vaccines Important for Older Adults? [3]

Vaccines act as a training ground for the immune system, stimulating a targeted response by introducing harmless components of pathogens. For older adults, whose immune systems may not respond as robustly, vaccines are crucial in boosting their ability to fight off new challenges.

Vaccines for older adults are important for:

• Boosting Immune Response: Vaccines act as a training ground for the immune system. By introducing harmless components of pathogens, vaccines stimulate the immune system to produce a targeted response. This is particularly important for older adults, whose immune systems may not respond as robustly to new challenges.
• Protecting Against Severe Illness: Age often brings a higher risk of severe outcomes from infectious diseases. Vaccines can significantly reduce the severity of illnesses and decrease the likelihood of complications, hospitalizations, and even fatalities.
• Herd Immunity: By getting vaccinated, older adults contribute to the establishment of herd immunity, protecting not only themselves but also those who may be more vulnerable to infections, such as individuals with compromised immune systems.
• Tailored Vaccinations for Older Adults Programs: Recognizing the unique needs of older adults, healthcare professionals may recommend specific vaccines, such as those targeting influenza, pneumonia, and shingles. These vaccines are designed to provide additional protection against infections that pose a higher risk to older individuals.

Recommended Vaccines for Older Adults[4]

Navigating the golden years demands a proactive approach to health, and prioritizing vaccinations is essential. The recommended vaccinations for older adults form a comprehensive shield against a spectrum of preventable diseases, reducing the risk of complications and enhancing overall quality of life.

Influenza (Flu) Vaccine

At the forefront of vaccinations for older adults stands the influenza vaccine. The flu, though often dismissed as a common ailment, can have severe complications for seniors, leading to hospitalization or even fatalities. The influenza vaccine is meticulously crafted each flu season to combat the specific strains of the influenza virus prevalent, significantly reducing the risk of infection and its associated complications.

Pneumococcal Vaccines

Pneumococcal diseases, including pneumonia, are formidable adversaries for older adults. Recognizing this, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends two pneumococcal vaccines for seniors – Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV13) and Pneumococcal Polysaccharide Vaccine (PPSV23). These vaccines offer a robust defense against various strains of the bacteria Streptococcus pneumoniae, mitigating the risk of pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections.

Shingles (Herpes Zoster) Vaccine

Shingles, a painful rash caused by the varicella-zoster virus, become more prevalent and severe with age. The shingles vaccine, recommended for adults aged 50 and older, acts as a shield against this painful and potentially debilitating condition. Beyond the rash, the associated pain can persist long after healing, leading to a condition known as postherpetic neuralgia. Vaccinations are a crucial step in preventing both the initial outbreak and its lingering consequences.

Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis (Tdap) Vaccine

While commonly associated with childhood vaccinations, tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis remain potential threats throughout life. The Tdap vaccine, recommended for adults, including older adults who may not have received a pertussis-containing vaccine as an adult, serves as a shield against these potentially serious bacterial infections. This includes protection against lockjaw (tetanus), severe respiratory issues (diphtheria), and prolonged coughing spells (pertussis).

Hepatitis Vaccines

Hepatitis A and B pose significant threats, especially for older adults. Hepatitis A is typically contracted through contaminated food or water, while hepatitis B is often transmitted through blood or other bodily fluids. Vaccination for older adults against both hepatitis A and B is recommended, offering protection against these potentially life-threatening infections and ensuring a healthier and more secure future.

Meningococcal Vaccine

Meningococcal disease, encompassing meningitis, presents a particular danger for older adults. The meningococcal vaccine, recommended for individuals with certain risk factors, such as compromised immune systems or those living in communal settings, provides protection against several strains of the bacteria Neisseria meningitidis. This protection is crucial in preventing infections of the lining of the brain and spinal cord, which can have severe consequences.

Vaccines for Older Adults at Greater Good Health

At Greater Good Health, we believe in empowering older adults to take charge of their well-being. Protecting yourself and your loved ones is as simple as getting vaccinated. Schedule your vaccination appointment today with our senior primary care services. Together, let’s build a stronger and healthier community. Find a primary care clinic near you, and contact us today.