* 3 June 2025 *

How many of your family and friends have been coughing and sniffing these last few weeks? That’s a sure sign that you need to get yourself vaccinated as soon as possible if you haven’t already. Acting Senior Quality Manager, Rachel Del Giudice reminds us how important this is, especially for older people.

Vaccination saves lives

Infectious diseases like COVID-19, flu and pneumonia are still a constant very real risk for older people. Older age is one of the biggest risk factors for serious illness, hospitalisation or death from these illnesses.

When to get vaccinated

>  If a person is 75 years or older, it is recommended they have a COVID-19 vaccination every 6 months.

>  People aged between 65 and 74 years are eligible for a COVID-19 vaccination dose every 6 months based on their health needs following discussion with a healthcare provider.

>  All adults are eligible for annual COVID-19 and flu vaccinations.

>  COVID-19 and flu vaccines can be administered at the same time.

>  You do not have to wait 6 months between a COVID-19 infection and getting a vaccination.

>  People aged 70 years and over may be eligible for free pneumococcal vaccines, which can help prevent some types of pneumonia.

Book in for vaccinations

Regular vaccination is our best line of defence against severe illness, hospitalisation and death from infectious diseases.

Vaccinations can be given by a GP, pharmacist or nurse practitioner, at your local clinic, community health centre or Aboriginal health services.

Aged Care Residents

If you are living in one of our Residential Aged Care Homes, the Registered Nurses on-site can arrange for your Doctor or a health provider to visit for vaccinations. Please speak to the nursing staff, who can coordinate this for you.

** Visitors to aged care ** Please stay home if you are unwell and visit only when you are well again and symptom-free. Thank you.

Home Care Clients

If you are a Home Care client and need assistance to visit your doctor, our Home Care team can coordinate this one-off service for you.

Call 9810 5570 to arrange.

Ex-Service Accommodation (ESA) Residents

Our ESA community can find a local health service (GP clinic, Pharmacy or Vaccination Clinic) by visiting www.healthdirect.gov.au or calling 1800 022 222.

It is critical for eligible older people to get vaccinated as quickly and safely as possible, helping protect you, your loved ones and the whole community.