This week (April 26 to May 2, 2026) marks National Immunization Awareness Week, a time to highlight the importance of immunizations across the lifespan, especially for older adults. Vaccines help seniors stay healthy, independent, and engaged in their communities, yet too many face unnecessary barriers to access.
Despite the importance of staying up to date with key immunizations, many seniors in B.C., particularly those living in congregate settings, do not have ready access to vaccines. An August 2025 report from the BC Care Providers Association (BCCPA) highlights these persistent gaps. Nationally, fewer than 40% of seniors are vaccinated against shingles and pneumococcal disease, and under 70% have received the influenza vaccine, well below the national target of 80% by 2025. In B.C., immunization rates are even lower, with the steepest disparities seen in rural regions and low-income communities.
Seniors face various systemic barriers, including mobility challenges, geographic isolation, policy limitations, misinformation, and out-of-pocket costs. For those living in care or seniors’ housing, the lack of on-site vaccination options can mean missed or delayed protection.
This National Immunization Awareness Week, BCCPA is calling for action. We urge for expanded and equitable access to vaccines through stronger partnerships between provincial government, family physicians, pharmacists, and seniors’ care and living operators. Practical solutions like on-site vaccination clinics, mobile immunization services, and extended delivery hours can remove barriers and ensure seniors receive the protection they need and deserve.
For vaccine-related resources for operators, visit SafeCare BC’s resource hub:
