As summer winds down and the intense Arizona heat slowly gives way to cooler mornings, it may feel too early to think about flu season or COVID-19 updates. But for older adults—especially those with chronic conditions—August is the perfect time to start preparing for fall vaccinations.
Both influenza and COVID-19 remain significant health risks for older adults, particularly those over 65. With updated vaccines anticipated this fall, here’s why early planning matters and what steps Arizona seniors and caregivers should take now.
Why Vaccines Matter More as We Age
As we age, our immune system naturally weakens. This makes it harder for the body to fight off infections and to respond robustly to vaccines. That’s why older adults are not only more susceptible to serious illness from respiratory viruses like flu and COVID-19, but they also need specific formulations—such as high-dose or adjuvanted vaccines—to get better protection.
In Arizona, where high temperatures can linger into fall, dehydration and underlying conditions like COPD, heart disease, and diabetes can also increase complications from these viruses.
What’s New for Fall 2025?
- Flu Vaccine: Updated each year to match circulating strains. The CDC recommends everyone age 6 months and older be vaccinated annually, with special emphasis on adults 65+ receiving a high-dose or adjuvanted version.
- COVID-19 Booster: An updated COVID-19 vaccine is expected this fall, tailored to better match the currently circulating variants. Seniors and those who are immunocompromised are likely to be prioritized once released.
- Combination Vaccines: There may also be new options for combined flu and COVID vaccines—early planning ensures you’re informed about availability and eligibility.
Why Arizona Older Adults Should Prepare Now
Here’s why August is the right time to act:
- Beat the Rush: Clinics and pharmacies often experience high demand once fall hits. Booking early helps avoid long wait times.
- Plan Around Travel or Caregiving: Many older adults in Arizona travel during the fall or welcome visiting family. Getting vaccinated in advance reduces risk during these high-contact periods.
- Coordinate with Your Primary Care Provider: If you manage chronic conditions, your doctor may want to adjust medications or time your vaccines around other treatments.
- Access May Vary: If you’re in a rural area or rely on in-home care, vaccines may take longer to arrive locally. Planning now gives you options.
Steps You Can Take Today
- Call your primary care provider to ask if/when fall vaccines will be available and if they are providing flu & covid vaccines
- Review your vaccine history to determine what you may be due for
- Talk to your provider if you’ve had any adverse reactions to past vaccines
- Encourage caregivers or family members to get vaccinated too—it helps protect you
We’re Here to Help
At ElderHealth, we actively help our patients stay safe and healthy throughout the year. This fall, we will offer a limited supply of flu vaccines and will prioritize them for patients who cannot access a flu clinic or pharmacy due to mobility, transportation, or health-related challenges.
We do not offer COVID-19 boosters, and we encourage eligible patients to receive their updated COVID vaccine at a local pharmacy or public health clinic when available.
Our care team will notify eligible patients when flu vaccines are in stock and will assist with scheduling as needed. Don’t wait for symptoms to show up this fall—the best time to protect yourself is now.
