{"id":1732,"date":"2023-07-19T09:00:56","date_gmt":"2023-07-19T09:00:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/assistinghands.com\/97\/?p=1732"},"modified":"2024-11-19T20:22:13","modified_gmt":"2024-11-19T20:22:13","slug":"why-seniors-are-susceptible-to-illness","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/assistinghands.com\/97\/california\/danapoint\/blog\/why-seniors-are-susceptible-to-illness\/","title":{"rendered":"Why Are Elderly People More Susceptible to Illnesses?"},"content":{"rendered":"
Elderly immune systems are typically not as effective at preventing illness or infection compared to those of younger adults. There are a variety of factors that make seniors more susceptible to disease processes.<\/span><\/p>\n

Insufficient Immune System<\/b><\/h2>\n

Older bodies don\u2019t produce as many white blood cells, T-cells, and natural killer cells as they did when they were younger. Thus, there aren\u2019t enough immune cells to recognize and combat new infections. In addition, the cells don\u2019t communicate as effectively with one another. Plus, the chemicals that trigger an immune response are also often deficient. For these reasons, it takes longer for immune cells to react to an infection. The depleted numbers of immune cells may also lead to an inability to successfully fight an infection.<\/span><\/p>\n

A weak immune system may increase the risk of seasonal infections and make it difficult for seniors to lead healthy lives. There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to address if their families opt for professional <\/span>home care<\/span>. You can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep your loved one safe and comfortable while aging in place.<\/span><\/p>\n

Circulatory Issues<\/b><\/h2>\n

Older adults often experience vascular problems that interfere with adequate blood flow. Vascular blockages and weakened hearts make it difficult for immune cells to quickly travel to the site of an invasion and trigger a response.<\/span><\/p>\n

Drug-Induced Acquired Immunodeficiency<\/b><\/h2>\n

There are many medications seniors commonly take that damage white cells or interfere with their development. When the white cells decrease in number, seniors are more likely to become susceptible to infection. Their bodies also have a more difficult time recovering.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Research each medication your loved one takes to learn about possible adverse effects. The medications known to endanger the immune system include these classifications:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n