What Seniors Need to Know About the COVID-19 Vaccine

How long has it been since you’ve enjoyed a visit with your parents? If you have older adults in the family, then you’ve likely been working hard to keep them safe during this pandemic.

After all, the CDC says seniors are the most vulnerable population right now. They’re more likely to suffer severe (or even fatal) Covid-19 infections. Your family has likely been awaiting the day the Covid-19 vaccine goes mainstream.

Well, the wait is finally over! Read on to discover all the facts seniors should know.

What is the Covid-19 Vaccine?

As you know, Covid-19 is a novel virus. Its effects are debilitating and range from neurological to respiratory symptoms. The Covid-19 vaccine intends to help our bodies recognize and fight off this new virus.

A “novel” coronavirus (nCoV) is a new strain that has not been previously identified in humans.

The vaccine will not give you coronavirus. Instead, it helps our bodies create a novel protein that is recognized by the immune system to fight off the novel virus.

Why Seniors Should Get the Covid-19 Vaccination

Since March, senior living communities have been coming up with ways to keep seniors safe from Covid-19. Isolation has been the key to preventing a Covid-19 infection, but can also be dangerous. Despite the protection it provides, extended isolation is tough on seniors. It’s not good for their mental or physical health.

Here are a few reasons why seniors should get the Covid vaccine ASAP:

• They’re highly effective at preventing Covid-19
• The vaccine can protect a senior’s loved ones, too
• Helps curb the spread
• Helps open up medical resources for other emergencies
• It could stop the pandemic

Once you’ve made the decision to vaccinate, it’s time to start researching your options.

Types of Covid-19 Vaccines Available Now

Currently, there are two main types of authorized Covid-19 vaccines in the US. They come from Pfizer and Moderna. Other vaccines are undergoing testing and will likely be available in the future.

Different vaccines do operate in different ways, but they all offer protection. In a nutshell, all Covid-19 vaccines provide the blueprints to fight off the infection.

Experts believe both the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are more than 90% effective.

mRNA: What You Need to Know

Unique viruses require unique solutions. That’s why this new vaccine is unlike any other in history.
Traditional vaccines work by providing the body with some of the virus’s DNA. From there, your body makes mRNA. This mRNA provides your body with the proteins it needs to fight off an infection.

This mRNA vaccine bypasses the first step. According to scientists, mRNA vaccines work by providing the genetic code needed for the body to produce viral proteins and fight off disease like Covid-19. The mRNA gets injected first, so your body is already a step ahead at protecting you.

A recent New York Times article details the science behind the Moderna vaccine called mRNA-1273.

Most importantly, researchers say mRNA vaccines give you a stronger form of immunity.

Looking Towards a Brighter 2021

Can the Covid-19 vaccine end the pandemic once and for all? It’s too early to say, but getting vaccinated is a great first step for older adults in Florida.

At Sonata Senior Living, we strive to protect the health and well-being of all our residents. If you’re looking for a safe place for you or your loved one to call home, then we’re here to help.

Don’t let concerns about coronavirus delay your decision to move to independent living, assisted living or memory care. Our signature program, Sonata Safe, emphasizes safety guidelines in senior living, including access to the Covid vaccine, to ensure the health and well-being of older adults.

To learn more about Sonata Safe, contact us today→ or schedule a visit →