Skip to agency navigation
Skip to main content

Official Website

of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

    The .gov means its official.

    Local, state, and federal government websites often end in .gov. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania government websites and email systems use "pennsylvania.gov" or "pa.gov" at the end of the address. Before sharing sensitive or personal information, make sure you're on an official state website. 
    Health Topics for Older Adults

    Immunizations for Older Adults

    ​Vaccines, also called immunizations, are just as important for older adults and they are for children. There are some standard vaccine recommendations and also some additional vaccines that may be right for you. Always consult with your chosen health care professional.

    Why Get Immunized?

    As you get older, your immune system weakens, and it can be more difficult to fight off infections. You're more likely to get diseases like the flu, pneumonia, and shingles – and to have complications that can lead to long-term illness, hospitalization, and even death.​ If you have an ongoing health condition, like diabetes or heart disease, getting vaccinated is especially important. Vaccines can protect you from serious diseases (and related complications) so you can stay healthy as you age.

    Which vaccines are recommended for adults age 65 and older?

    Standard Recommended Vaccinations

    There are several standard vaccinations recommended for most older adults.  They include:

    • COVID-19
    • Seasonal Flu (Influenza)
    • Pneumonia (pneumococcal)
    • Tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis (Tdap or Td)
    • Shingles (Zoster)

    Other Vaccines You May Need

    You may need other vaccines based on your age or other factors, too. Talk with your doctor to learn which vaccines are recommended for you. 

    Some of those vaccinations may include:

    • RSV (Respitory Syncytial virus)​​
    • Hepatitis A
    • Hepatitis B
    • Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib)
    • Meningococcal

    Are there any vaccines I should not get?

    Because of age, health conditions, or other factors, some people should not get certain vaccines or should wait before getting them.  For this reason, it is important to consult with your doctor or other health care professional.

    Be sure to tell your doctor if you have already had any of these vaccines or diseases. To make sure you get the vaccines you need, your doctor will also need to know your allergies and history of disease.

    How to Pay for Vaccines

    Medicare Coverage

    Medicare generally covers most recommended vaccines but depending on your Medicare plan, you may have out-of-pocket costs for some. Contact Medicare to find out what's covered.

    PACE Coverage

    Pennsylvania's prescription assistance programs for older adults, PACE and PACENET, offer low-cost prescription medication, including immunizations, to qualified Pennsylvania residents, age 65 and older. Learn more about PACE and how to apply.

    Where to Get Vaccinated

    You can get most recommended vaccines at your doctor's office. Many recommended vaccines are also available at local pharmacies, health centers, health departments, and travel clinics. You can also contact your local Area Agency on Aging.​