Companies involved in professional caregiving including in-home nursing care, lifestyle support, home physical therapy services, and respite, receive daily calls regarding the COVID-19 vaccine. There are questions and concerns, all of which should have a voice, not to mention receiving answers.
At Caring Family Health in Allentown and Philadelphia, PA, we keep up to date on official recommendations regarding vaccines, especially booster shots for older adults. Because we provide aid services for veterans and other aging individuals, we take our responsibility to heart. It’s vital you get the most dependable information.
Booster Shots 101:
The idea of booster shots is nothing new. Boosters are an extra dose of a vaccine. If you think back to your childhood, you may have received one for measles or whooping cough, for example. Tetanus also requires a booster every 10 years.
Booster shots prime your immune system. They help your body recognize a virus, and produce antibodies against it. This acts as an extra line of defense.
Should Elders Receive the Covid-19 Booster Shot?
The short answer is yes.
It is recommended for older adults in order to provide the greatest protection. If you or your loved one has Medicare Part B, you will pay nothing for the booster shot. Any deductible or copay does not apply.
Homebound individuals receiving care from yourself, a skilled nurse, or a trained personal caregiver can get the vaccine or boosters in the comfort of home.
There are situations in which a booster may prove contraindicated. We always suggest consulting with medical professionals before receiving Covid-19 shots, or any vaccine.
Does it Work?
Education is the best resource you can have regarding Covid. The Covid-19 vaccine has shown itself to be effective in reducing the risk of hospitalization and severe cases. That benefit is why health officials recommend Covid-19 booster shots for older adults. You want extra protection, especially as new variants develop.
Timing for Covid-19 Booster Shots
If the individual is over the age of 65, and they received the Moderna or Pfitzer vaccine, the booster shot should be scheduled for at least 6 months after their 2nd inoculation.
According to the CDC, you can mix and match your inoculations. This is really a matter of personal preference. When uncertainty arises, contact the individual’s primary care physician.
Setting up an Appointment
Caring Family Home Health is happy to help you make an appointment. Thanks to the internet, we can check schedules for various health providers and pharmacies and schedule a convenient time. Typically there’s about a 1-2 week advance window.
Reminder: Bring your Insurance Card, ID, and Covid-19 Vaccination card to the appointment.
Don’t forget that Medicare will pay a doctor or medical professional for home inoculations should a person be homebound.
Looking for Help?
If you are in a situation where you need help with a loved one for in-home care services in Allentown, PA, or Philadelphia, PA, don’t hesitate to reach out to our compassionate staff with your questions, including those about COVID-19 vaccine boosters for older adults.
You can reach our offices by phone: (844) 818-0039. Or, fill out our online contact form HERE.
