The awareness of COVID-19 and its individual and global implications are essential in navigating the COVID pandemic. Since the introduction of COVID vaccines, the decision to vaccinate or not to vaccinate continues to be a major issue. Coronavirus variants, for example, may cause someone to ask, “Will the vaccine really protect me?” Another may say, “I will get vaccinated for myself and my family.” Still there are those who will choose not to get vaccinated. Within the older adult population, such decisions are considered daily.

High Vaccination Rates

Every day risks are weighed, and chances are taken when it comes to the coronavirus. Older adults, however, are making a conscious effort to slow the spread of COVID-19. Although skepticism remains around the vaccine, adults aged 65 and over have the highest percentage rate of vaccinated adults in America. The Mayo Clinic’s vaccine tracker reports that 82.9 percent of older adults are fully vaccinated. In Alabama, that percentage is 78.5 percent among seniors.

As one of the fastest growing populations, older adults have taken the lead in trying to stop the spread of COVID-19. Among the senior population, there is a constant awareness of the seriousness of the pandemic. After all, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that older adults, people with underlying medical conditions, and pregnant women are among the most vulnerable populations for COVID infections.

Setting an Example

Seniors are setting the example for the importance of remaining COVID conscious. As in times past and to this day, the older adult population continues to maneuver with an endless amount of determination and resilience.

Visit the Virginia Caples Lifelong Learning Institute or the Successful Aging Initiative pages to discover available resources for older adults.