It’s that time of the year again… The dreaded flu season is here in 2020! That being said, it is especially important for your senior loved one to exercise caution and take preventative measures to ward off the flu. Seniors are one demographic much more likely to contract the flu due to their weaker immune systems. Fortunately, by following our 5 top tips below, your senior can reduce their likelihood of getting sick, or at least reduce the length or severity of their illness! 

Get Plenty of Exercise

When it comes to boosting the immune system, exercise can get the job done, and done well! Regular exercise can reduce the chances of contracting the cold or flu by a third! It can be as simple as going on a walk one a day to help keep the flu at bay.

Wash Your Hands

Say goodbye to germs and wash your hands regularly with soap. Just any regular soap will work as long as you rub your hands together vigorously for at least 20 seconds. Scrub your hands all over – under the fingernails, in between the fingers, the backs of the hands, and the wrists! If you can’t wash as often as you’d like, carry some hand sanitizer with you.

Get the Flu Vaccine

If you want to reduce the chances of getting the flu, get the flu vaccine. If you should contract the flu, the vaccine will help reduce the length and severity of the sickness! To be preventative, it is recommended to get this shot in October or November, but experts say that any time of the year is still better than not getting it at all!

Keep Your Environment Clean

In addition to keeping the hands clean, it is also worthwhile to keep a senior’s home clean! Especially the kitchen and bathroom. Be sure to use a disinfectant and give extra cleaning care to items like doorknobs, light switches, and counters – all areas where the hands are frequently touching!

Drink Your Fluids

When you drink plenty of fluids, like water and hot tea, what you’re really doing is keeping the nasal passages moist! This helps to trap germs and stop them from spreading into the rest of the body.

Need more advice on keeping your senior healthy and well through flu season? Contact Home Care Assistance and speak with our senior care experts today!