Pneumonia Risk Management and Prevention

Helpful Highlights

• Older adults (age 65 and older, especially 80 and older) are a high-risk group for pneumonia.

• There are many, many simple ways to reduce risk and prevent pneumonia.

• Regular hand washing and quitting smoking are the best first steps.

High-risk groups

Anyone can get pneumonia. However, the following groups are at the highest risk of contracting pneumonia or experiencing complications:

• Adults ages 65 and older (especially 80 and older) and children younger than 5.

  • Especially older adults living in communal settings (large or multiple-family households, assisted living facilities)

• People who have chronic medical conditions, like diabetes or heart or lung disease.

• People with weakened immune systems (cancer, transplant, autoimmune).

• Smokers.

Risk management and prevention

Lowering the risk

• Annual flu shot

• Pneumonia vaccination

• Have a provider check any suspected complications with swallowing (aspiration can cause pneumonia)

• Control existing medical conditions (especially heart or lung disease and diabetes)

• Get testing for symptoms (influenza A & B, COVID-19)

• Regular hand washing

Further lowering the risk

• Eat healthy foods (a diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables, high fiber)

• Drink lots of fluids (clear liquids are best)

• Limit alcohol intake*

• Quit smoking

• Get adequate rest (7-9 hours) at night

• Stay active

• Wash hands regularly

*National Institute on Alcohol and Alcoholism - people older than age 65, who are healthy and don't take medications, no more than seven drinks a week. American Diabetes Association - one drink or less a day for women, or two drinks or less a day for men.

Even more to lower the risk

• Regularly clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces (door knobs, all handles, countertops).

• Cough or sneeze into a tissue or the bend of the elbow.

• Quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke. Smoking damages the lungs and makes infection more likely.

• Stay away from others when sick.

• Stay away from others who are sick (like grandchildren).

• Avoid close contact and sharing items with others if either is sick.