IFA and EuGMS Statement of Action

Vaccination is a crucial public health intervention, especially for older adults who are more vulnerable to vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs) due to weakened immune systems and chronic conditions. Despite its benefits, vaccine uptake among older adults remains low due to various factors, including lack of inclusion in national immunization plans, inadequate infrastructure, insufficient data, and lack of healthcare provider training and patient education. Robust vaccination policies, informed by advisory bodies like National Immunization Technical Advisory Groups (NITAGs), are essential for promoting healthy ageing.

To drive policy change, the involvement of geriatricians, civil society, and patient representatives is essential in advancing adult vaccination efforts and ensuring equitable, evidence-based vaccine decisions for older adults. To this end, IFA sought to bring together geriatric professionals to support shared dialogue and action to advance adult immunization policy and specifically ensure a life course approach amongst NITAGs.

Hosted at the European Geriatric Medicine Society (EuGMS) Congress, which took place in 18-20 September 2024 in Valencia, Spain, IFA and EuGMS united to develop key recommendations and actions to improve vaccination policy and practice for older adults. The Statement of Action also provides a basis for ongoing partnership and strategic actions to ensure vaccination is prioritized to support healthy ageing and maintenance of function into later life.

Read the joint Statement of Action below.