Pneumonia Shot for Seniors: Is It Necessary?

Question
Hello, My mother is 84 and she gets a flu shot every year.
Also, she takes medication for her thyroid, eye drops for glucoma and medication to help her memory due to alzheimers or dementia. She has never had a pneumonia shot and her doctor has never said anything about giving her one.  Do you think she should have one? She doesn't have any kind of lung problems, etc.  

Answer
Connie,

Medical research has "proven" that immunization against the pneumococcal organism chiefly responsible for pneumonia (in the form of a "pneumonia vaccine") will drastically reduce pneumonia and death from pneumonia in the elderly population (those over 65).  Especially if they are living in a nursing home.  Generally it is recommended by most physicians in the USA for those with or without lung disease.

JP Saleeby, MD