Seniors are at more risk for contracting an illness due to a low level of immunity, aging process, or certain injuries. It is crucial to protect them from sickness, especially when someone has memory loss issues or prone to chronic conditions. The best way to prevent illness is to stay at home, which proves to be the safest choice in the COVID-19 pandemic.
There is still a lot that you can do to reduce the chances that your elderly loved one will get sick. Your aim should be to boost the immune system and prevent exposure to infectious particles. If you are unable to take care of your elderly parent due to work commitments, it is best to acquire home care and home health services to minimize certain vulnerabilities.
This comprehensive guide will cover some tips to prevent the aging population from germs and lead a happier, healthier lifestyle.
Let’s dive in.
1. Get a Flu Shot
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Getting a flu vaccine may help to reduce the severity of the sickness and safeguard from complications, which is essential for seniors. There are many highly infectious and dangerous health issues but you can reduce the risk of getting it in the first place by taking simple and effective measures.
2. Practice Good Hygiene
The simplest solution to fight off any infectious particles is by keeping cleanliness. The best part is this is what we are all probably doing anyway and most importantly, during the coronavirus outbreak. Hygiene practices like showers, hand washing, face washing, grooming, teeth brushing, changing into new clothes can reduce the chances of infection. You can consider hiring a caregiver for senior care services to obtain assistance in these day-to-day activities.
3. Create a Safe and Calming Environment
A safe and healthy environment is a vital step towards preventing sickness or injury. It is best to keep pathways clear of obstacles and stay organized to reduce depression and anxiety problems. Keep in mind, both mental and physical well-being contributes to immunity and recovery state in the elderly.
4. Avoid Unnecessary Contact and Travel
If seniors are feeling sick, have been around an ill person, or suspect they’ve been exposed to an ill person, it is advisable to avoid contact with other members. Especially during the pandemic and flu season, it is necessary to maintain social distance which means little-to-no visitors, no large family gatherings, and limited trips to crowded areas.
Sometimes, when it is necessary to go out, elderly individuals should wear protective gear like face masks, gloves, and more to prevent cross-contamination risk.
5. Encourage Well-Balanced Diet
A healthy diet is a way to boost immunity, mood, and overall well-being. It is best to add some superfoods to seniors’ daily diet such as spinach, mushrooms, fish, yogurt, fruits, and green leafy vegetables. Giving them an extra amount of vitamin C can help reduce infections. Along with taking care of eating habits, give them plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, and fight off germs effectively.
Conclusion:
Personal hygiene, good lifestyle choices, and safety measures can help to ease the symptoms and reduce the risk of contagion. Since seniors are at a high risk of difficulties, it is wise to hire a caregiver who has undergone Caregiver Certification Programs to make a healthy environment for your elderly loved one.
This way seniors can get assistance with daily tasks like medication reminders, personal care, companionship, and more. It will also allow aging or vulnerable population to live independently with dignity and safety.
