Vaccines from age 65 and beyond: What to expect and when

In our latest blog, Claire Cameron, Consultant in Public Health from our Vaccination and Immunisation Division, explains which vaccines are offered later in life and when people aged 65 and over can expect to receive them.

Reaching the age of 65 signals a new phase, particularly when it comes to looking after your health. This is because as we get older, our bodies change, and one of the biggest shifts happens in our immune system. It becomes weaker over time, which means we’re more vulnerable to infections than in our younger years.

That’s why, from the age of 65, adults in Scotland are offered a wide range of routine vaccinations to help keep them protected. Some vaccines are recommended as soon as you turn 65, while others are introduced later.

Because vaccinations are offered at different ages, some are one-off and others annual, it can understandably feel confusing. The table below breaks down which vaccines are currently offered and when - giving you a clear, simple overview so you know exactly what to expect.

*For those with eligible health conditions, these vaccines may be offered earlier in life and with additional doses.  

How can I get vaccinated?  

For all vaccines, you’ll be invited with a date, time and location.  

Flu vaccine 

Flu can be serious for anyone, but even more so for older adults. The flu vaccine helps protect you from getting the flu and if you do catch it, being vaccinated means that the symptoms are likely to be milder and not last as long.  

Pneumococcal vaccine 

The pneumococcal vaccine protects against serious illnesses caused by pneumococcal bacteria – like pneumonia and meningitis. These conditions can be more severe in older age, which is why everyone is offered a one‑off vaccine at the age of 65. It’s a simple way to help protect yourself against illnesses that can lead to hospitalisation. 

Shingles vaccine 

Shingles can be very painful, and the pain can last for several years. It’s more common for older people and that’s why the shingles vaccine is offered from the age of 65. The eligibility isn’t as straight forward as some of the other vaccines offered as the offer is being rolled out to more people than ever before. You can find a detailed breakdown of who is offered the vaccine on NHS inform or use the age eligibility calculator.  

COVID-19 vaccine 

COVID-19 is now a relatively mild disease for most people, however, it can still be serious for older adults. As we age, our immune system doesn’t respond as strongly, and our protection reduces over time. This is why it’s important to get vaccinated every time you‘re offered, usually in Spring and Winter.   

RSV vaccine 

RSV is a common virus that affects the lungs and airways. The infection circulates all year round, but cases peak in winter. For older adults, RSV can sometimes lead to more serious illness, which is why the RSV vaccine is offered from age 75. 

Last year we saw a 62% reduction in RSV-related hospitalisations among older adults following the vaccine’s introduction. 

Final thoughts 

Whether you’ve just turned 65 or you’re already beyond that milestone, we hope this guide has helped make your vaccination journey easier to navigate. All these vaccines are an important way to stay protected as you get older. And remember, they’re free and the NHS will contact you when you’re eligible.  

Further information 

If you want to find out more information, NHS inform has more information to help you feel confident about what vaccine is being offered next. If you have any questions, or think you’ve missed an appointment, you can find the contact details of your local immunisation team here