With autumn comes increasingly colder temperatures and the risk of getting the flu. Those with weakened immune systems are especially vulnerable; this includes the elderly. With flu season not far off, learn how to safeguard your senior loved ones from the flu and the common cold.
When is Flu Season?
Flu season occurs in the colder months of the year. There are some disagreements over when flu season is at its peak. Most people are in agreement, though, that it begins between November and December and concludes in February or early March, though some people suggest it can last until May.
Why Does Flu Season Peak During Cold Weather?
What is it about cold weather that makes us more prone to contracting the flu and other illnesses? Researchers believe illness-inducing viruses like influenza and rhinovirus are able to spread more easily under cold temperatures. Furthermore, a study from Yale University revealed that cold temperatures lowered the immune system’s ability to fight off germs and viruses.
When it’s cold outside, people also tend to stay indoors. With multiple people sharing an enclosed space, that’s more opportunity for germs to spread from person to person.
6 Ways to Prevent Flu in Seniors
Older folks simply don’t have the immune strength of someone in their 20s, 30, or even 40s. Nevertheless, it’s possible at any age to reduce the likelihood of contracting the flu. Here are some habits for seniors to stave off illness during flu season.
1. Wash Your Hands Often
Seniors should regularly wash their hands using antibacterial soap. If hand-washing is not available, use alcohol sanitizer. Do this every time after the following:
- Using the bathroom
- Using a doorknob
- Touching your eyes, nose, or mouth
- Physical contact with other people or pets
- Before or after handling food
2. Consume Immune-Boosting Foods
Studies confirm that vitamin C boosts immune function. Consider adding more vitamin-C-rich foods to your diet, such as bell peppers, kiwis, guavas, and brussels sprouts. Similarly, research has also revealed that the mineral zinc may help fight off infections.
Foods rich in zinc include oysters, shellfish, legumes, oats, and quinoa. You may also take a vitamin C or zinc supplement, but try to get the source from whole foods whenever possible.
3. Get Vaccinated
Make an appointment for a flu vaccination at your local clinic or drugstore. Seniors should get the vaccination annually. Getting a vaccination won’t 100% protect you from the flu, but it will reduce your risk of infection or reduce the severity of symptoms if you do contract the illness.
4. Avoid Stress
There are studies correlating mental stress with physical illness. Psychological stress causes your body to release cortisol and other stress-related hormones. In turn, this adversely impacts your immune and inflammatory response. While stress isn’t always avoidable, try to maintain a positive attitude and look at the silver lining when situations don’t go your way.
5. Stay Hydrated
As the recommendation goes, aim for eight glasses of water per day. Water helps the kidneys flush out toxins that contribute to illness. If water is too bland, you may swap out a few glasses for natural alternatives, such as tea, but the majority of your fluid intake should be from plain H2O.
6. Stay Indoors
If you feel symptoms, such as coughing or wheezing, stay at home and minimize contact with other people. If possible, have a family member or caretaker run outdoor errands. If you must go out in public, take precautionary measures, such as wearing a mask and maintaining physical distance from other people.
It’s best for your senior loved one to take it easy during the flu season. Our CAREGivers provide seniors with home care services in Lafayette, LA, and surrounding areas, which includes daily assistance, from cooking antioxidant-rich meals to preparing the medication. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let Home Instead be of help!
