As respiratory and infectious disease threats evolve, new research continues to reinforce a clear, consistent theme: vaccination remains one of the most effective tools for protecting older adults and high-risk populations.

Recent data on COVID-19, influenza, RSV, and shingles vaccines show sustained benefits across safety, disease prevention, and reduction in serious complications.

Below is a concise wrap-up of the latest findings to help long-term care and senior living communities stay informed and prepared.

COVID-19, Flu & RSV Vaccines: Strong Protection Continues

A large review of recent vaccine studies evaluated COVID-19, RSV, and influenza vaccine performance for the 2024–2025 respiratory season—and the results were encouraging:

• COVID-19 vaccines continue to provide meaningful protection against severe disease and hospitalization, especially in adults 65+.
• RSV vaccines—now recommended for adults 60+ using shared clinical decision-making—showed solid protection against RSV-associated lower respiratory disease.
• Influenza vaccines remained effective in reducing symptomatic flu and severe outcomes across age groups.  (Source: CIDRAP)

These findings align with national guidance for the 2025–2026 flu season, with timing ideally by the end of October.

New Research: Flu Vaccination in Midlife Does Not Increase Parkinson’s Risk

A recent study examining more than 10,000 adults found no link between midlife influenza immunization and increased Parkinson’s disease risk.

This is important reassurance for adults who depend on annual flu vaccination but may have concerns about neurological conditions. 

The takeaway: flu vaccination remains safe and does not elevate Parkinson’s risk.

Shingles Vaccination Shows Benefits Beyond Infection Prevention

Multiple new studies continue to highlight the broader value of shingles vaccination, which is especially critical for older adults.

1. Reduced Cardiovascular Events and Dementia Risk

A sweeping population study found that individuals vaccinated against shingles had:

• Lower rates of cardiovascular events, including stroke and heart attack
• Reduced incidence of dementia
• Lower all-cause mortality

Researchers note that the reduction in neuroinflammation may play a role in these long-term benefits.

2. Significant Drop in Dementia-Related Deaths

Another recent report found a notable decrease in dementia-related deaths among adults who received the shingles vaccine.

Together, these studies suggest that shingles vaccination may offer neuroprotective and cardioprotective benefits far beyond preventing shingles itself.

What This Means for Senior Care Providers

For long-term care and senior living communities, these findings support what many clinicians already experience:

1. Vaccination remains one of the strongest defenses

Across COVID-19, flu, RSV, and shingles, vaccines consistently reduce severe outcomes, hospital use, and mortality—critical in settings with frail, medically complex residents.

2. Vaccination may help reduce cognitive decline and cardiovascular events

The new shingles data is especially relevant as communities serve rising numbers of adults with memory care needs.

3. Clear, proactive immunization programs protect residents, staff, and operations

Preventing severe illness helps minimize staffing disruption, emergency transfers, and regulatory risks tied to infection control.

Staying Prepared for 2025–2026

Vaccination programs continue to evolve as new evidence emerges, but the direction is clear: vaccines remain essential to protecting older adults, reducing complications, and supporting healthier communities.