Ways To Keep Seniors Healthy During Flu Season 2020
Even though we are all excited that the spring season is on its way, this time of year also indicates something much less fortunate… It’s flu season 2020, and it’s here. This means your senior loved one will need to take a few extra precautions in an effort to ward off the flu! Unfortunately, seniors have a higher likelihood of catching the flu because their immune systems are weaker. But by taking our advice below, your senior can better prevent getting sick from the flu and reduce the severity and length of the sickness if they do catch it.
Get Plenty of Exercise
One of the best ways for your senior to boost and build their immune system is by exercising! Getting regular exercise, even something as simple as a daily walk, can reduce your senior’s chances of contracting the flu or a cold by a third!
Wash Your Hands
Have your senior wash their hands frequently to keep the germs away! They can use any regular soap to get the job done, and each wash should be at least 20 seconds while rubbing their hands together vigorously. Make sure they wash all over – between fingers, under the fingernails, the wrists, and the backs of the hands. Carrying hand sanitizer is a great alternative when there is no access to soap or water.
Get the Flu Vaccine
Getting the flu vaccine can reduce your senior’s chances of catching the flu. Experts suggest getting the vaccine in October or November to be preventative, but your senior can still get it at any time. The vaccine will also help to reduce the duration and severity of the flu if your senior does become ill.
Keep Your Environment Clean
Making sure your senior’s home is clean is as important as keeping their hands clean. This is especially true for two rooms: the kitchen and the bathroom. Use a good disinfectant and really work to wipe down countertops, light switches, and doorknobs!
Drink Your Fluids
You’ll want to make sure your senior is drinking plenty of fluids, like water and hot tea! These beverages help keep the nasal passages moist and prevent germs from spreading to the rest of the body.
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