Protect Your Senior Loved Ones from the Flu
As cooler weather approaches and we think about fall colors, football games, and hayrides, we also need to think about how to protect yourself and senior loved ones against the flu so we can enjoy these fall days.
Overture Home Care serves mostly senior clients by providing caregivers in seniors’ homes. Both the client and the caregiver are at significantly higher risk of contacting the flu. Our seniors are more at risk because of possible chronic conditions and lowered immune systems. Our caregivers are more at risk because – as any caretaker of another human can attest – when your life is dedicated to someone else’s care, it is a life full of stress and lacking in good, immune-building sleep.
The flu shot is always talked about this time of the year as a great defense from getting the flu or, at least, shortening and lessening the effect of getting the flu. However, there are some additional, easy actions that can help reduce your chances of getting the flu.
Helpful flu prevention steps
Wash your hands – and assist a senior loved one to wash their hands, too! Especially those seniors that may be experiencing some type of dementia. We may remember to wash ours, but helping those around you that need that gentle reminder will reduce their risk.
Disinfect your surroundings (and those of a senior loved one). We often disinfect our kitchen and bathroom areas, but think about all the areas of the home that our hands touch every day. Remember things like cell phones, TV Remotes, doorknobs, cabinet pulls and light switches and even your car steering wheel.
So, get your flu shot and keep it clean. The flu is really serious for our senior loved ones; let’s keep them healthy so you can enjoy one another this fall and holiday season.