Correlates of Influenza Vaccine Uptake in Persons with Dementia in Canada

Abstract

As the Canadian population ages and rates of aging related disorders increase, it is important to find medical interventions that can promote health. Dementia is becoming an increasing concern among Canadians, with dementia comes the increased risk of infection and a greater chance of adverse health effects following infection. This makes it incredibly important to ensure that people with dementia are receiving a seasonal influenza vaccination.  However, persons with dementia remain below the recommended rate of vaccination. This study examines how the presence of comorbidities may impact the rate of influenza vaccination among persons with dementia. Key comorbidities relating to dementia include COPD, heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure. As influenza vaccination for dementia patients is an incredibly important protective factor it is important to incorporate routine care that may increase vaccination rates. The presence of heart disease and COPD were both associated with a significantly higher vaccination rates. However, the relation to routine care was insignificant. These findings are important as it raises the question of why heart disease and COPD raised vaccination rates if not due to routine care. Continuing research targeting the dementia population is important to find ways to promote protective vaccination such as the seasonal flu shot.