Flu Season Is Upon Us, What Do You Need to Know?

Flu season is officially upon us, and we must be knowledgeable to make the best possible decisions. Seniors face higher flu risks, so they must plan carefully and take proactive steps to protect their health. Influenza—or, more simply—the flu, is highly contagious and can have serious consequences, especially in older adults. Everyone must have effective strategies for prevention, recognizing symptoms early, and managing health effectively.

Let’s discuss how older adults can take essential steps to care for themselves and how others can gain the knowledge to support the seniors that we love.

Flu Season Basics for Seniors

Older adults are more likely to have additional problems resulting from the flu. This can lead to hospital stays and, in severe cases, can be fatal. Remember that the flu is more dangerous for adults over 65 since the immune system gets weaker with age. This makes it easier for seniors to pick up a second infection while the body is working at fighting the flu. Elderly adults with existing conditions, such as heart disease, are also at a higher risk of having complications.

Flu Season Prevention Tips for Seniors

Elderly adults must know what steps to take to prevent themselves during the flu season. The flu spreads rapidly through airborne droplets, traveling up to 6 feet when an infected person sneezes, coughs, or talks. It can also spread from surfaces, so regularly disinfect highly touched areas in the home, like counters, phones, doorknobs, and light switches.

• Wash your hands often and avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. An annual flu vaccine is vital, and there is a high-dose vaccine made especially for the elderly that has 4 times as much of the active ingredient in the regular dose, providing a better immune response.
• Seniors should never be in contact with someone who has the flu. They also need to stay home if they are sick themselves.
• Finally, cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze, and don’t hesitate to remind those around you to do the same!

Recognizing Flu Symptoms in Seniors

During flu season, seniors should always know what symptoms to look for. If you experience a fever, headache, fatigue, cough, aches and pains, sore throat, or a runny, stuffy nose, don’t just assume you have a cold—it could very well be the flu. Often, elderly people also experience nausea and vomiting, which can lead to dehydration and pneumonia and also make chronic conditions such as asthma and heart disease worse. Always consult a doctor as soon as possible if symptoms develop.

Treatment and Recovery

Elderly people who are infected with the flu need to give themselves plenty of time to get well. Rest as much as possible, and remember that staying hydrated is extremely important, so have plenty of water and juice readily available. Bring your fever down and reduce aches and pains with over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Never smoke or drink alcohol when you have the flu, and most importantly, follow your doctor’s instructions. If your symptoms should get worse, you aren’t responding to medication, or if you develop new symptoms such as weakness, dizziness, or trouble breathing, contact your doctor immediately—even if you’ve already received treatment.

Supporting Seniors in Group Living Settings

Many seniors live in group settings, so they need to be extra aware of the steps to take. Seniors in group living and their caregivers must consistently monitor for early signs of the flu. It’s important to remember that typical symptoms may not appear in the elderly, but conditions can escalate quickly.

Being vigilant is the best way to provide support. Seek treatment immediately at the first sign of infection. Caregivers and family members should ensure that seniors are vaccinated and have a clean living environment. It is also beneficial to have a plan ready for emergencies. Taking these steps and precautions is the best way to protect seniors during flu season.

Addressing Concerns and Myths

There are concerns and myths surrounding the flu and seniors. One such myth is that the flu shot can cause the flu. This is false since the vaccine contains an inactive virus that cannot be replicated. Another common myth is that if a person over the age of 65 has no underlying conditions, they don’t need a vaccine. Seniors need to know that no matter how healthy they are, an annual flu shot is necessary.

Many people are concerned about the side effects of the vaccine. They should know that side effects, such as soreness at the injection site, are mild and disappear quickly. Everyone should also be aware that underlying conditions in the elderly can cause serious complications, so stress the importance of the vaccine and the prevention tips that we’ve discussed.

At Silverbell Homestead, taking care of seniors is our top priority. We are here to provide the care you need and deserve during flu season and all year round. If you have any questions, contact us today.