There are many changes that take place in the body as the years go by. One of those changes includes a steady decrease of the immune system. As a result, seniors are more prone to diseases such as the flu, which can have serious repercussions when compared to their earlier years. While flu may have once simply been considered an inconvenience, it can now be fatal for them. Senior home care can help seniors understand why the flu is more dangerous in later life and offer the support they need to take better care of their overall health.
Why the Flu Is More Dangerous for Seniors
As mentioned, aging impacts the immune system, making it less capable of battling illnesses. This implies that when seniors get the flu, their bodies take longer to recover, and the disease is more likely to result in complications like pneumonia, bronchitis, or exacerbation of pre-existing disorders. Other reasons why the flu is more dangerous for seniors include:
Underlying Health Problems: Seniors are more likely to have underlying health problems such as heart disease, diabetes, or chronic respiratory illnesses, all of which can be exacerbated by the flu. In severe circumstances, flu complications can result in hospitalization or even death.
High Hospitalization and Mortality Rates: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report that the majority of flu-related hospitalizations and deaths are among those aged 65 and older. The flu can cause a significant inflammatory response, which can lead to subsequent infections or even organ failure in extreme circumstances.
Slower Recovery: Unlike those in their younger years, recovery from the flu tends to take longer in seniors. This lengthy healing period increases the chance of secondary infections or problems, which can have a negative influence on their overall health.
Steps Seniors Can Take to Stay Healthy
While no solution is fail-proof, there are steps that seniors can take to increase their odds of staying healthy, such as the following:
Practice Good Hygiene: Simple hygiene precautions can help reduce flu transmission. Seniors should regularly wash their hands with soap and water, use hand sanitizer as needed, and avoid touching their face, particularly the nose, mouth, and eyes.
Avoid Close Contact With Sick People: The flu is easily transmitted through respiratory droplets. Seniors should avoid crowded settings throughout flu season and keep a safe distance from people who are exhibiting flu symptoms. Senior home care can help with this by running errands for seniors so they limit exposure to those who might not be feeling well.
Boost Immunity with a Healthy Lifestyle: A healthy immune system can help seniors fight infections more successfully. Seniors should eat a well-balanced diet high in vitamins and minerals, remain hydrated, exercise regularly, and get plenty of sleep. Stress management, as well as avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol intake, can also boost immunity.
The flu may have been a minor inconvenience at one time, but it poses a far greater threat to seniors. With this in mind, seniors must take preventative measures to protect themselves, and senior home care can help by encouraging them to implement some of the tips above.
If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring Senior Home Care in Bel Air, CA, please call Mom's Home Care and talk to our friendly, knowledgeable staff.
Our number is 323-244-4789.
Sources:
https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/flu/flu-and-older-adults
https://www.cdc.gov/flu/highrisk/65over.htm
https://medicine.yale.edu/news/medicineatyale/article/why-flu-is-deadly-among-the-elderly/
https://familiesfightingflu.org/how-serious-is-flu-for-adults-over-65/
