As colder temperatures arrive, shielding yourself and your aging loved one from the bitter cold isn’t the only protection you should consider as flu season is upon us. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), people 65 years of age or older have a higher tendency to attract flu-like symptoms compared to younger people. The cause of this is due to the weakening of the immune system as one gets older. There are ways to prevent the flu from invading a senior’s body this season with these helpful precautions.
RELATED: What You Should Know and Do This Flu Season If You Are 65 Years and Older
Receive Flu Shots
For most seniors, getting a yearly flu shot from the local pharmacy or physician is the most common way to prevent the flu. As stated by the CDC, it’s recommended that everyone six months or older should receive a seasonal flu shot by the end of October. For those 65 years or older, “high dose vaccine” flu shots are recommended to best protect from the nasty virus. This vaccine has a stronger immune response and is four times the amount of antigen than a regular seasonal flu shot.
Maintain Healthy Habits
Eating healthy is essential, as many foods have various antioxidants, vitamins and other minerals to help promote a healthy immune system. As well as maintaining healthy eating habits, being sanitary can drastically reduce a senior’s chances of contracting flu symptoms, too. Basic and effective habits such as avoiding others who may be sick, covering coughs and washing hands can drastically protect seniors from flu season.
In Case of Contraction
If a senior is experiencing severe coughing, sneezing, runny nose and other common symptoms of the flu, seek medical attention immediately. A physician will go over the symptoms to detect whether or not your loved one has the flu. In the case that someone may be diagnosed with the flu, a physician will be able to prescribe treatment with antiviral drugs. The CDC recommends the use of antiviral drugs for those 65 years and older.
SEE ALSO: What You Should Know About Flu Antiviral Drugs
You’re Protected at Independence Village
Our senior community takes the proper measures to create a healthy environment for our residents and staff. In the case of getting ill, our team of dedicated medical professionals will be here to assist your loved one and get them the prescribed help needed to combat the flu and other common illnesses. For more information about Independence Village, contact us at 1-844-40-ENJOY.
