Winter is a time we naturally slow down. Not quite hibernating, but between the cold weather that brings ice and snow, and the onset of flu season and colds, many people tend to stay close to home.
That can be a good thing. Another good thing is for seniors along with their loved ones and caregivers to guard against the flu and colds. Throw in COVID-19 during this global pandemic and keeping your guard up is absolutely vital.
One thing to keep in mind is that as seniors age, their immune system naturally weakens. It’s all the more reason to protect yourself in the winter and remain in good health.
With that in mind, here are easy tips to keep you in good health:
—Vaccines are helpful. Every fall, make a flu shot your top priority. You can greatly lower your chance of getting the flu. You’ll also lower the severity of the flu if you do get it. Another benefit of a flu shot is that it can protect you from complications.
—Wash Your Hands. One of the easiest ways to guard against cold and flu germs is to wash your hands. Use soap and rub your hands together—including your wrists—for at least 20 seconds. Scrub thoroughly. If you want to use hand sanitizer, make sure it has at least 60% alcohol.
—Stay active to boost your immunity. With just moderate exercise, you’re able to boost your immune system by as much as 33%.
—Don’t touch your face. Touching your face, particularly your eyes, nose, and mouth, is an easy path for cold and flu germs to get into your system. By staying vigilant about touching your face, you’ll greatly reduce your exposure to germs.
—Clean your living space regularly. Cut down your exposure to germs by cleaning your living space. The regular use of disinfectants on doorknobs, light switches, counters, and other places you touch often kills germs. Change your cleaning sponges and rags often and soak them in bleach.
—Keep your mobile devices clean. Use a sanitizing wipe or rubbing alcohol to clean your mobile device. Don’t overdo it by getting it wet and damaging it.
—Stay away from people who are sick. At all costs, avoid sick people. While it may be hard to avoid at times, if you’re aware that someone is sick—even with the sniffles—don’t come in contact with them. This includes shaking hands.
—Stay away from crowds. Avoid exposure to illnesses and viruses by staying away from large groups of people, especially in indoor settings and places with poor ventilation. Avoid traveling and when you go out in public, wear a mask.
—Stay hydrated. Frequently drink water or hot tea. This helps you fight germs.
—Get your Vitamin C. Eating foods that are a good source of Vitamin C boost your health. Foods high in Vitamin C include bell peppers, strawberries, tomatoes, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, and white potatoes. Vitamin C supplements may also be a good option, but check with your medical provider.
A CARING-FIRST ENVIRONMENT
Senior living communities like Bellaire at Stone Port are precisely that—a community. Residents become friends and even family, and a caring team is there to help them maintain their quality of life.
At Bellaire at Stone Port, we offer both Assisted Living and Memory Care and we care with Honesty, Excellence, Accountability, Residents first and Teamwork. We like to call it Caring with H.E.A.R.T.™!
If you believe a senior living community would benefit your loved one, get in touch with us. Schedule a visit or download a brochure today!