As the colder months approach, seniors become more susceptible to seasonal illnesses like the flu, common colds, COVID-19, and RSV. With aging comes a decline in immune system strength, making it more difficult for older adults to fend off infections.[i] This makes proper preparation critical. Whether you're a senior or a caregiver, these guidelines can help you stay healthy and boost overall well-being throughout the cold and flu season.
Strengthening the Immune System Through Healthy Habits
A robust immune system is a senior’s best defense against illnesses. Homewatch CareGivers of Libertyville is committed to supporting seniors by focusing on nutritious diets and positive lifestyle choices. Want to learn more? Reach out to us today to see how we can help.
Include Immune-Boosting Foods: Encourage seniors to eat nutrient-rich foods such as oranges, spinach, and nuts, which are packed with vitamin C and zinc. A well-rounded diet can help strengthen the body’s immune response.[ii]
Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water is key for maintaining good health, including a strong immune system. Seniors should aim to stay hydrated throughout the day to reduce the risk of infections.
Engage in Gentle Exercise: Physical activity, such as taking walks or doing chair exercises, helps improve circulation and bolster immune function. At Homewatch CareGivers of Libertyville, we assist seniors in staying active through manageable exercise routines as part of our daily care.
Ensure Quality Sleep: Sleep is crucial for immune health. Poor sleep can weaken the body’s defenses, making it easier to catch viruses. Our caregivers can help seniors establish healthy sleep habits and create a restful sleep environment.
Practicing Good Hygiene to Reduce Germ Exposure
One of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of seasonal illnesses is by practicing good hygiene. Caregivers and seniors can work together to maintain cleanliness and reduce germ exposure:
Wash Hands Regularly: Washing hands with soap for at least 20 seconds is essential for stopping the spread of germs. Our caregivers can help seniors maintain this habit and ensure that hand sanitizer is available when needed.
Disinfect High-Touch Surfaces: Frequently touched areas like countertops, door handles, and remotes should be disinfected often. Our caregivers can assist with cleaning these surfaces, helping to lower the risk of germ transmission.
Consider Protective Measures: In areas where flu or COVID is prevalent, wearing masks and covering sneezes and coughs with tissues or elbows can help prevent the spread of illness. While mask-wearing is a personal choice, it’s a useful precaution for those with weakened immune systems or when viruses are circulating.[iii]
Vaccinations: A Key Preventative Step
Staying up to date with vaccinations is one of the most effective ways to avoid severe flu complications. Seniors should get their flu shot annually, stay current with their COVID-19 vaccines, and check if they are eligible for the RSV vaccine. Vaccines play a vital role in safeguarding older adults from potentially serious illness, as recommended by health authorities like the CDC.[iv]
Your neighborhood CVS and Walgreens offer free flu and COVID-19 vaccines to help protect you and your loved ones this season.
With the right preparation and precautions, navigating cold and flu season doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At Homewatch CareGivers of Libertyville, we are here to support you and your loved ones with personalized care. Give us a call at 847-503-9639 or visit our website to learn more about how we can help seniors stay healthy throughout flu season and beyond.
