Issue 14.11
A recent report published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warns that many of the nation’s seniors are not getting potentially lifesaving preventive health services. Millions of seniors are missing recommended vaccinations, screenings for chronic disease and counseling to help them stop smoking.
Vaccinations for influenza and pneumococcal disease, and screenings for breast cancer, colorectal cancer, diabetes, high cholesterol and osteoporosis are critical for seniors. The CDC report says that one of the reasons older Americans are not receiving these services, which are covered by Medicare and the Affordable Care Act, might be due to a simple but widespread lack of awareness. Here at Molina Healthcare, we have case managers who take care to remind members which screenings and vaccinations are recommended for their age group, and also assist patients with scheduling and insurance issues.
Seniors should talk to their doctor or other healthcare professional to find out what services are recommended for them, but a few commonly recommended vaccines for older adults include:
· Influenza (flu): This shot should be given annually, since the flu virus changes from year to year.
· Pneumococcal Disease: This can be given with your flu shot, and those over 65 only need it once.
· Tetanus and Diphtheria: These bacterial infections are prevented by booster shots, given every 10 years.
· Shingles: If you had chickenpox as a child, you may be vulnerable to Shingles, which can be a very painful disease. Ask your doctor to find out if this shot is recommended for you.
Screening is recommended as a preventive measure for many cancers and chronic diseases. Screenings that may be appropriate for you include:
· Breast Cancer: Recommended annually for women over 40.
· Colorectal Cancer: Recommended via colonoscopy every 10 years or one of several other screening tests every 5 years.
· Diabetes: The American Diabetes Association recommends screening at three-year intervals after age 45.
By the year 2030, about one in five Americans will be aged 65 or older. Keeping seniors healthy will improve the quality of life for these individuals.
Molina Medicare 1-866-403-8293 TTY 1-800-346-4128 8 AM – 8PM local time, 7 days a week.