Recent research on vaccines for older adults

Abstract

Vaccination is increasingly recognised as a cornerstone of healthy ageing and geriatric care, extending beyond the prevention of infectious disease to potentially influence broader health outcomes. This Commentary article commemorates the launch of Age and Ageing’s vaccines collection by highlighting key vaccine-related research published in the journal. It focuses on vaccine uptake, effectiveness and emerging research priorities for older adults. Uptake of recommended vaccines, including influenza, COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus and pneumococcal vaccines, remains variable internationally and is challenged by vaccine hesitancy. Successful vaccination programmes combine healthcare professional education, centralised reminder systems and easy access to vaccination services. Studies involving care-home residents demonstrated that COVID-19 vaccines provided substantial protection against infection and, particularly, mortality, although effectiveness declines over time and is influenced by immunosenescence. Immunological studies reveal weaker vaccine responses among infection-naïve older adults, supporting the importance of booster programmes and strategies to enhance immunity. Emerging evidence also suggests that interventions such as probiotics may improve vaccine immunogenicity, although further high-quality trials are required. Beyond infection prevention, observational data indicate that several vaccines, may be associated with a reduced risk of dementia, particularly vascular dementia, though causal relationships remain unproven. Looking forward, greater inclusion of frail older adults and care home residents in vaccine trials is essential to strengthen the evidence base. Future research should support the development of novel vaccines, improve preparedness for future pandemics and optimise vaccination strategies to maximise healthy ageing and preserve function in later life.