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Vaccination Questions for the Clinician
Disclaimer: Not Medical Advice
Preventive care should fit the individual. Ask your parent’s clinician which screenings and vaccinations are appropriate for their health, history and preferences. Discuss benefits, limitations, costs and follow-up before deciding; this is a set of questions, not a test package for every elder.
Essential Preventive Screenings for Your Senior Parents
Ask which of the following topics are relevant. This is a consultation agenda, not a recommended test package for every elder.
A. Cardiovascular Screenings
Blood pressure: Ask whether clinic or home readings are needed and how they should be reviewed.
Cholesterol: Ask whether a test is appropriate and how the result would affect advice or treatment.
B. Diabetes Screening
Blood glucose: Ask what testing is relevant to the person’s history or current concerns.
HbA1c: Ask whether this test is appropriate and what it would add to the assessment.
C. Cancer Screenings
Breast Cancer:
Ask whether breast screening is relevant, considering the person’s history, current guidance, preferences and follow-up options.
Colorectal Cancer:
Ask about colorectal screening options, their limitations and preparation if relevant to the individual.
Prostate Cancer:
Ask about the possible benefits and drawbacks of prostate testing before deciding.
D. Bone Health Screenings
Bone health: Ask whether risk assessment or bone-density testing is appropriate.
E. Vision and Hearing Tests
Vision and hearing: Discuss difficulties in daily life and which assessment or follow-up would help.
Recommended Vaccinations for Your Senior Parents
Bring the available vaccination record and ask the clinician which vaccines, if any, are currently appropriate.
Topics to discuss may include the following; timing and suitability require individual professional advice:
Influenza: Ask whether vaccination is recommended and what schedule applies.
Pneumococcal vaccination: Ask whether it is appropriate and whether previous doses affect the plan.
Shingles: Ask about suitability, prior history and any relevant precautions.
Tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis: Ask whether an update is due based on the vaccination record and current guidance.
Hepatitis B: Ask whether vaccination is appropriate in the person’s circumstances.
Yodda can help coordinate available appointments and practical support. Qualified clinicians recommend and deliver preventive healthcare. Confirm the selected services, costs and local provider arrangements. Related resources: Yodda
Disclaimer: Not Medical Advice
The content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, nor should it be used as a basis for any diagnosis, treatment, or other medical decisions. We are not healthcare professionals and thus, explicitly disclaim any liability in connection with the use of this information. Yodda can organise a consultation with a qualified healthcare provider, which is vital before making any decisions regarding your health.