Here’s a startling fact: despite the ongoing threat of flu and COVID-19, a significant number of older adults are skipping their vaccines. But why is this happening, and what can we do about it? A recent national survey sheds light on this critical issue, revealing that 42% of individuals over 50 haven’t received either a flu or COVID-19 vaccine in the past six months. This is particularly alarming given the heightened risks these viruses pose to this age group.
And this is the part most people miss: the survey, conducted by the University of Michigan’s National Poll on Healthy Aging, highlights that 29% of older adults have gotten both vaccines, while 27% have only received the updated flu shot. However, the remaining 42% remain unprotected. When it comes to COVID-19 vaccination since 2021, the numbers are even more concerning: 49% of those over 50 haven’t had a dose in over a year, and 15% have never been vaccinated.
But here’s where it gets controversial: the primary reason cited for skipping these vaccines? Many older adults simply don’t think they need them. A staggering 28% of those who skipped the flu vaccine and 29% who avoided the COVID-19 vaccine gave this as their main reason. This is despite overwhelming evidence that staying up-to-date on both vaccines significantly reduces the risk of severe illness and death in older adults, whose immune systems benefit from regular ‘reminders’ through updated vaccines tailored to new virus mutations.
Other reasons for hesitancy include concerns about side effects (19% for flu, 27% for COVID-19) and doubts about vaccine effectiveness (18% and 19%, respectively). Interestingly, only a small percentage (10% for flu, 6% for COVID-19) admitted they simply forgot, while even fewer cited logistical issues like time, cost, or availability.
Here’s the bigger question: Why aren’t older adults convinced of the vaccines’ necessity? Dr. Jeffrey Kullgren, the poll’s director, emphasizes that while experts focus on population-level statistics, individuals often care more about personal outcomes—like avoiding illness altogether. Even if a vaccine isn’t a perfect match for circulating strains, it still primes the immune system to fight off the virus, reducing symptom severity and duration.
Another surprising finding? The recent changes in COVID-19 vaccine recommendations by the FDA and CDC had minimal impact on older adults’ decisions. Less than 1% of unvaccinated respondents cited eligibility concerns as their main reason for skipping the shot. Yet, vaccination remains crucial for most older adults, especially those with chronic conditions like diabetes, asthma, or high blood pressure.
But here’s the silver lining: older adults with chronic health conditions were more likely to get vaccinated than those without. However, even among this group, 39% hadn’t received either vaccine in the past six months. Additionally, the poll reveals disparities: 20% of those aged 50-64 have never gotten a COVID-19 vaccine, compared to 7% of those over 75. Income also plays a role, with lower-income individuals less likely to be vaccinated.
So, what’s the takeaway? It’s not too late to get vaccinated this season. For those over 65 or immunocompromised, a second COVID-19 dose is recommended six months after the first. But here’s the real question for you: How can we better communicate the personal benefits of vaccination to older adults? Is it a matter of clearer messaging, addressing misinformation, or something else entirely? Let’s start the conversation—share your thoughts in the comments below.
