Seniors are susceptible to the common cold and the flu during the winter season. The weakened immune systems of older adults cause their symptoms to be more severe. Caregivers are urged to protect their elderly loved ones by following these five cold and flu prevention tips.
What causes the flu?
The flu, which is caused by the influenza virus, is a highly contagious infection that affects the respiratory system. Seniors can become infected by handling surfaces or objects that are contaminated by the virus and then touching their mouth, nose, or eyes. Millions are affected each year.
The flu virus replicates swiftly in adults aged 65 and over. As a result, seniors’ immune systems quickly become overwhelmed, leaving them more vulnerable to catching pneumonia. A recent study suggests that the inflammatory response, not the virus, leads to fatal outcomes.
What causes the common cold?
Like the flu, the common cold is also an infection caused by a virus. It primarily affects the nose and throat but has milder symptoms. Although cold symptoms are milder, they are still dangerous for older people whose immune systems are no longer robust enough to fight off an infection.
The cold poses as a threat to the health of older adults because it can lead to pneumonia, an acute and potentially fatal illness that takes thousands of lives each year. A cold can also intensify symptoms of other conditions, such as asthma, emphysema, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD).
When is cold and flu season?
Flu activity varies but is most pronounced during the autumn months, beginning in October. Cases of the flu peak between December and February with some activity lasting until May. The typical cold season runs parallel to the flu season, lasting from September to May.
What are cold and flu prevention tips?
As the winter season approaches, older adults and their caregivers are increasingly vulnerable to catching the cold or developing the flu. It is advised that the elderly take steps to limit their exposure to viruses during flu and cold season and keep themselves healthy and well.
1. Wear a mask
Coughs and sneezes catapult viruses into the air. When seniors are in public or receive visitors at home, they should wear a mask to decrease their exposure to viruses. Ask guests to wear masks, too. Also cover the mouth when sneezing and coughing to prevent spreading germs.
2. Wash hands often
Touching contaminated surfaces can introduce viruses into a senior’s body. Reduce the chances of catching the cold or flu by washing hands frequently with soap and water. Wash hands for at least 20 seconds after blowing the nose, coughing, sneezing, and returning from outings in public.
3. Run a humidifier
Dry air is the perfect habitat for viruses. But adding moisture to the air reduces flu symptoms and aids in recovery. Increase the water vapor in the air by turning on a humidifier. Humidified air also helps to relieve the discomforts associated with the common cold or the flu.
4. Clean and disinfect
Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects in the home frequently to eliminate lingering cold and flu viruses. Certain readily available disinfectant sprays are designed to kill the rhinovirus and influenza virus on hard, nonporous surfaces within 30 seconds to 4 minutes.
5. Get a flu vaccine
Receiving an annual flu shot is the most effective way to prevent the flu. A flu vaccine reduces the chances of an older individual being hospitalized or dying if they get sick with the flu. The flu shot is updated each year to keep up with the changing viruses.
The flu vaccine becomes active two weeks after the shot, so schedule a vaccination at the end of October when virus circulation ramps up. Avoid getting vaccinated too early, such as in July or August, since immunity decreases more rapidly in elderly people.
Specific flu vaccines are recommended by federal health officials for people aged 65 and older. Vaccines, like Fluzone High-Dose Quadrivalent, Flublock Quadrivalent, and Fluad Quadrivalent trigger a better immune response in the older population compared to the traditional flu vaccine.
Seniors can schedule their annual flu vaccine at their doctor’s office, a local pharmacy, or a vaccine clinic. The senior’s doctor can advise which flu shot is right for them. If vaccines intended for older adults are unavailable, it is beneficial to opt for the traditional flu shot.
Preventing common cold symptoms—like a runny nose, sore throat, and mild cough—as well as sudden flu symptoms, such as a persistent high fever, pronounced weakness, and muscle aches, can be easily done with the help of family members or dedicated caregivers.
Seniors can lean on the reliable elder care professionals from Assisting Hands Home Care. Our qualified caregivers prioritize the health of their aging care recipients throughout the year but put extra focus on keeping seniors healthy during the cold and flu season.
Your aging loved one may need transportation and escort to the doctor’s office or pharmacy for their annual flu shot. We provide transport to these locations as well as others, such as senior exercise classes or nearby senior centers. Our efforts ensure seniors stay connected with their community.
Additional in-home services we provide include disinfecting the home, grocery shopping, and help with hygiene tasks. We prepare nutritious meals so that seniors’ bodies are fueled with the vitamins and minerals they need to fight off infections. Caregivers also keep the elderly hydrated with beverages.
Senior care from Assisting Hand Home Care goes a step further. We serve as pleasant companions to ward off loneliness and clear the home of clutter to prevent trips and falls. Care options include respite care, compassionate memory care, and post-surgical care, among others.
Families trust the licensed, bonded, and insured caregivers at Assisting Hands Home Care. Our caregivers are privileged to serve the senior population in Miramar, Florida, and the neighboring areas. Schedule a free in-home consult for senior home care and keep your aging loved one healthy all year-round.
