The Takeaway
- Bacterial pneumonia remains one of the top causes of death for older adults.
- Symptoms can be subtle or “atypical,” delaying treatment.
- Vaccines, good nutrition, and prompt care can save lives.
- Supplements like vitamin D and probiotics may help support immunity.
- Diane Keaton’s sudden illness reminds us: this can happen to anyone.
When news broke that Diane Keaton had died at 79 from bacterial pneumonia, it caught fans — and even her closest friends — off guard. According to People, Keaton’s family said she “declined very suddenly.” Her death certificate confirmed she battled pneumonia for only a few days before succumbing.
The loss of the Annie Hall star is a sad reminder that pneumonia remains one of the most dangerous infections for older adults. The CDC estimates that millions of Americans are hospitalized each year with pneumonia, and seniors account for most of the deaths.
The short version of this? It can happen to anyone.
Even celebrities aren’t immune. Actor Bob Hoskins, Kentucky’s own Colonel Sanders, and philanthropist Brooke Astor all died of pneumonia-related complications in later life.
