Preventative Screenings and Vaccines for Older Adult Community Populations
Introduction
As the population of older adults continues to grow, it is crucial to prioritize their health and well-being. Preventative screenings and vaccines play a significant role in maintaining the health of older adult community populations. In this infographic and essay, we will focus on the topic of preventative screenings or vaccines for this population. Specifically, we will explore the importance of colonoscopy as a preventative screening and pneumovax as a vaccine for older adults.
Infographic: Preventative Screenings and Vaccines for Older Adults
Please refer to the attached infographic for a visual representation of the information discussed in this essay.
Essay: Preventative Screenings and Vaccines for Older Adults
Preventative Screenings
Colonoscopy is a crucial preventative screening for older adults, particularly those over the age of 50. This screening is used to detect and prevent colorectal cancer, which is the third most common cancer in both men and women. According to the American Cancer Society, individuals at average risk should begin regular colonoscopy screenings at the age of 45 (Wolf et al., 2020). However, for older adults, the frequency and timing may vary depending on their overall health, family history, and prior screening results.
The primary purpose of a colonoscopy is to identify any abnormal growths or polyps in the colon or rectum. During the procedure, a flexible, thin tube with a camera is inserted through the rectum into the colon. This allows the healthcare provider to examine the entire colon and remove any identified polyps, which can potentially develop into cancer (National Institute on Aging, 2020). Aside from detecting colorectal cancer, a colonoscopy can also help identify other gastrointestinal disorders such as inflammatory bowel disease and diverticulosis.
Regular colonoscopy screenings offer numerous benefits for older adults. Firstly, early detection of colorectal cancer leads to more effective treatment and improved outcomes. Studies have shown that screening colonoscopy can reduce the incidence of colorectal cancer by up to 80%, making it an essential tool in preventing and managing this disease (Lansdorp-Vogelaar et al., 2015). Additionally, removing polyps during colonoscopy can significantly reduce the risk of developing colorectal cancer in the future, making it a preventive measure as well.
However, it is important to consider the potential risks associated with colonoscopy screenings. Perforation of the colon, bleeding, and adverse reactions to anesthesia are possible complications of this procedure. The decision to undergo screening should be a collaborative one between the healthcare provider and the older adult, taking into account individual risks, benefits, preferences, and overall health status.
Vaccines
In addition to preventative screenings, vaccines play a vital role in maintaining the health of older adult community populations. One particular vaccine recommended for older adults is pneumococcal vaccine, commonly known as pneumovax. Pneumovax protects against pneumococcal diseases, including pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections, which can be life-threatening for older adults (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2020).
