Flu and Cold Prevention Tips for Seniors
It's cold and flu season and we want to make sure that everyone is prepared.
Seniors are especially vulnerable to the effects of a cold or flu because they often have other health problems like heart disease, asthma, diabetes, and more. This article will discuss some tips for preventing illness in seniors with these challenges.
Get the Flu Vaccine
If you are 60 or older, it's important that you get the flu vaccine. Getting vaccinated against the flu is particularly important if your immune system isn't working properly due to illness.
Getting vaccinated for the flu can help prevent a common cold or flu from turning into something more serious.
Wash Your Hands Frequently
It might seem obvious but washing hands frequently with soap and water can help reduce your risk of catching a virus or bacteria from another person who has it on their hands.
Make sure everyone in the household knows how long they should be scrubbing for at least 20 seconds.
Cover Your Cough or Sneeze
When you have a cold or the flu, it's important to cover your nose and mouth when you sneeze or cough. This will help prevent other people from getting sick.
This can be done by using a tissue, your sleeve, or your elbow.
Eat Well and Stay Hydrated
The best way to stay healthy is by eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated with water or fruit juices, and sleeping well.
It's also important that you don't skip meals during the cold season because your body needs the energy food provides. Drinking enough fluids will help keep mucus thin so it can move more easily when you clear your throat or cough.
Exercise Often
Exercise is not only good for your physical health, but it's also great for your mental health. When you exercise, your body releases endorphins, which are hormones that make you feel happy.
So when the weather is nice, try to get outside and go for a walk or a bike ride. If you have to stay indoors, try doing some stretching exercises or yoga.
Stay Away from Sick People
The best way to avoid getting sick is to stay away from sick people. If someone in your family is sick, keep them isolated from the rest of the family and don't let them come near you.
If you have to leave the house, wear a face mask so you don't get exposed to other people's germs.
Avoid Touching Your Eyes, Nose, or Mouth
It might feel good when you scratch your nose but it can leave behind bacteria that cause infections if you touch the area again. If you have a cold with runny eyes and nose, wear disposable tissues so there isn't any waste after use.
Also, avoid touching these areas as much as possible because it spreads the virus around more quickly to other parts of your body where it could do damage.
While these tips may seem obvious, it’s the simple and practical principles that will help keep everyone healthy this flu season.