Caregiver – Don’t Miss National Influenza Vaccination Week! Dec 7-13
Every year the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommend that people over the age of 6 months get a flu shot prior to the start of the flu season, which is usually October. They especially urge people over the age of 65 to get their seasonal flu shots due to the fact most seniors have a much higher risk of health complications from contracting the flu. The CDC says that it is important for Baby boomers and older to get their flu shots because of their lower immune system. As we age, our immune system becomes weaker and people have a difficult time fighting off illnesses or recovering from them. Medical research has shown most flu-related hospitalizations and deaths typically happen with people who are over the age of 65. One of the main risks for seniors who get the flu is the potential for it to turn into pneumonia.
Besides seniors getting their flu shot, there are other ways to help them avoid getting this seasonal virus:
- Wash hands with soap and warm water on a regular basis, especially after using the restroom or before eating.
- When you cough or sneeze, be sure to use a tissue and then throw it away in the trash. However if a tissue is not available, make sure to cough or sneeze into your arm instead of your hand.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. This can spread germs.
- Keep away from people who are sick, especially those who have flu symptoms such as coughing and sneezing.
- To help boost the immune system, eat a healthy diet and get plenty of rest.
If an elderly person does get sick, monitor them closely for flu symptoms (fever, coughing, sneezing, runny nose, sore throat, body aches, chills and headaches.) It can be beneficial to get them in to see the doctor right away so their symptoms can be treated and stave off more serious problems from developing. Seniors have two options when getting their flu shot this year – the regular flu vaccine or a newer vaccine with a higher dose, created for people over 65.
Your parent’s home care provider can take your loved one to get the flu shot, which is one more thing off your mind. When you know your elderly loved one is being taken care of and has all the help she needs with tasks on a daily basis, it can bring a lot of peace of mind to you and other family members.
If you or an aging loved one needs caregivers in Carmichael, CA area, remember Senior Home Care Services for all services needed. Call us at (916) 514-7006 for more information.
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