Unnecessary Risks: An Exploration of the Immunization Status of Older Women in Long-Term Care Facilities and the Community

ABSTRACT

The purpose of this study was to determine the extent to which women 65 years of age and older had received immunization services consistent with the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force Recommendations. Analysis of data from a group of residents in 3 selected long term care facilities (n = 130) and a community group (n = 1,442, 1991 NHIS-HPDP Supplement) revealed that both groups surpassed the recommendation for influenza vaccinations but failed to meet the mark in receipt of either pneumonia or tetanus immunizations. These findings suggest that older women in long-term care facilities and the community are at an unnecessary risk for preventable diseases.