As the temperature drops and flu season approaches, seniors are particularly vulnerable to illnesses like the common cold, COVID, flu, and RSV. With age, the immune system weakens, making it harder to fight off infections.[i] This is where proper preparation comes in. Whether you're a senior or a caregiver, these tips will help you navigate cold and flu season while boosting immunity, maintaining good hygiene, and ensuring seniors' overall well-being.
Boosting Immunity Through Nutrition and Lifestyle
A healthy immune system is a senior’s first line of defense against colds and the flu. Homewatch CareGivers of Crystal Lake’s caregivers can support seniors by focusing on a nutrient-rich diet and promoting healthy lifestyle habits. To learn more about our services, contact us today!
Eat Immune-Boosting Foods: Incorporate nutrient-dense foods like citrus fruits (rich in vitamin C), leafy greens, and foods high in zinc, such as nuts and seeds. A well-balanced diet provides the body with essential vitamins and minerals to strengthen the immune system.[ii]
Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration is essential for overall health and immunity. Encourage seniors to drink water throughout the day, as dehydration can weaken the immune system and increase susceptibility to infections.
Maintain Regular Exercise: Gentle physical activity, such as walking or chair exercises, can boost circulation and support immune function. Homewatch CareGivers of Crystal Lake offers assistance with activities of daily living, including fitness routines, to help seniors stay active.
Prioritize Sleep: Sleep is critical for a healthy immune response and poor sleep can reduce the body’s ability to fend off viruses. Our caregivers work with seniors to create a comfortable sleep environment and establish consistent sleep routines.
Maintaining Hygiene to Prevent the Spread of Germs
Good hygiene is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs during cold and flu season. Seniors and their caregivers can work together to maintain cleanliness and follow these simple precautions:
Frequent Handwashing: Washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is one of the best defenses against the flu. Our caregivers can assist seniors with handwashing and ensure that hand sanitizers are readily available when soap and water aren’t accessible.
Disinfect Frequently-Touched Surfaces: Common areas such as doorknobs, remote controls, and light switches can harbor germs. It is a good idea to regularly disinfect these surfaces in the home, especially during flu season, to reduce the risk of transmission. Our caregivers can help seniors regularly disinfect their homes.
Use Protective Gear: If the flu or COVID is circulating in your community, wearing masks and practicing proper cough and sneeze etiquette (into the elbow or a tissue) can reduce the risk of illness. Masking is a personal choice but is a good idea for people with compromised immune systems and for those who know that sickness is spreading in their community.[iii]
Schedule Vaccinations: Seniors are encouraged to stay up to date on vaccines, such as the flu shot, COVID shot, and, if eligible, the RSV vaccine. Vaccinations are one of the best preventative measures against serious flu complications, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).[iv] Your neighborhood CVS and Walgreens offer free flu and COVID-19 vaccines to help protect you and your loved ones this season.
Cold and flu season can be challenging, but with proper preparation, seniors and caregivers can reduce the risk of illness and promote overall well-being. At Homewatch CareGivers of Crystal Lake, we are committed to providing the support seniors need to stay healthy and safe. Visit our website or give us a call 815-310-1369 today to learn more about how our caregivers can assist you during the flu season and beyond.
