If you’re over 50, protecting your lungs isn’t just a seasonal concern — it’s a year-round priority. While many people associate pneumonia with a lingering cold or flu, the truth is pneumonia is a potentially life-threatening illness, especially for older adults.
The good news? Pneumonia is largely preventable, and there are proactive steps you can take to lower your risk.
At Saving Grace, we provide in-home healthcare services for adults in Oklahoma City, including pneumonia prevention, vaccinations, and urgent care support. Here’s what you need to know to stay protected and why this conversation is especially important after age 50.
Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that causes inflammation in the air sacs (alveoli). These air sacs can fill with fluid or pus, making it difficult to breathe and reducing oxygen levels in the bloodstream.
Pneumonia can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi — and in adults over 50, bacterial pneumonia is often the most dangerous form, especially if caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae (also known as pneumococcal pneumonia).
As we age, our immune systems naturally weaken. This makes it harder for the body to fight off respiratory infections. In fact, adults over 50 — especially those with chronic conditions like diabetes, asthma, heart disease, or COPD — are significantly more likely to be hospitalized or suffer complications from pneumonia.
Risk factors include:
That’s why pneumonia prevention isn’t just about avoiding illness — it’s about protecting long-term health and independence.
Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may include:
If you or a loved one is over 50 and experiences any of these symptoms — especially after a cold or flu — it’s important to seek medical attention quickly. Early treatment can prevent complications like sepsis, respiratory failure, or hospitalization.
The most effective way to prevent pneumonia is to stay ahead of it with a combination of vaccination, lifestyle choices, and early intervention.
There are two main types of pneumonia vaccines recommended for adults:
The CDC recommends:
At Saving Grace, we offer in-home pneumonia vaccinations — no waiting rooms, no exposure to illness, and no confusion about scheduling.
The flu can weaken your immune system and make you more vulnerable to pneumonia. An annual flu shot reduces your risk of developing both the flu and related complications.
Smoking damages lung tissue and increases your risk of respiratory infections. If you’re ready to quit, we can help connect you with local resources.
Frequent handwashing, avoiding close contact with sick people, and sanitizing commonly touched surfaces can all reduce your risk of infection.
We know that taking care of your health shouldn’t be difficult — especially when you’re already managing a full life. That’s why Saving Grace provides concierge-style, in-home care designed to simplify your preventive health routine.
We offer:
And because we come to you, you can stay safe and comfortable — especially if you’re avoiding crowded clinics or hospitals during illness season.
Pneumonia can strike quickly — especially after another illness. But with the right prevention plan, you can reduce your risk and protect your independence and quality of life.
If you’re 50 or older, or caring for someone who is, now’s the time to ask:
✅ Am I up to date on my pneumonia and flu vaccines?
✅ Do I know what symptoms to watch for?
✅ Do I have a care provider I can call when I need help?
With Saving Grace OKC, the answer to all three can be “yes.”
Book your in-home pneumonia vaccine today — because House Calls Are Back®, and prevention has never been more convenient.
