Smoking, lack of exercise, obesity and diabetes all increase the risk and severity of heart disease. Cerebrovascular deaths are more commonly referred to as death due to stroke and stroke is common in people over age 65 years. About one in three strokes is fatal. For every three strokes, one person dies, one suffers permanent damage or disability and one has no long lasting health effects. Flu shots are now available but not all elderly obtain them.
Pneumococcal vaccines are also available.
Elderly who reside in sheltered living settings such as congregate housing or nursing homes may have better access to information about the pneumococcal vaccine. Elderly who live alone, are isolated and do not have regular access to a health provider may not be adequately protected either from influenza or pneumonia. People who smoke or have other illnesses have the greatest risk of dying as a result of pneumonia or flu. Age adds risk. Suicide deaths are an important measure of elderly isolation.