Elder Care in Stonybrook NY
Now that fall us upon us, it is time to get serious about flu prevention. Elderly adults, especially those with chronic health conditions, are at a high risk for developing health complications due to
the flu virus. In fact, it has even caused seniors to be admitted to the hospital or death.
Older adults who live alone may especially be at risk for developing these complications because they tend to ignore the symptoms. However, by having an elder care provider to watch over your loved one and make sure they are healthy, they will be in good hands.
Symptoms
If you or the elderly care provider recognizes any of the following symptoms in your loved one, contact their doctor as soon as possible.
- Fever
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Chronic cough
- Aches and pains in their body
- Sore throat
Vomiting, nausea, and diarrhea could occur because of the flu, but are not very likely. These symptoms are typically found in children, not adults.
Complications
The flu can lead to other health problems among elders, including:
- Dehydration
- Pneumonia
- More severe symptoms for existing medical conditions
If they have the following health problems due to the flu, call 911 immediately:
- Difficulty breathing
- Symptoms are getting worse or staying the same after 3 or 4 days
- Shaking chills, vomiting, diarrhea, chest pain, nausea, high fever, and coughing appear after the flu symptoms have begun improving
Prevention
The best defense against the flu is to get an influenza shot every year. There are special high-dose shots that are created for older adults because it has four times as much of the active ingredient as regular influenza shots.
Another way to prevent the flu from happening to your elderly loved one is to make sure they are thoroughly washing their hands before each meal, after using the bathroom, and after doing any activity that could cause them to get dirty. It is also important that people who are sick stay away from the elder until they are symptom-free.
Treatment
If your loved one does get the flu, here are a few simple ways to help them heal quickly.
- Drink plenty of fluids
- Rest
- Discuss all over-the-counter medications with their doctor or pharmacist before taking them just to make sure they will not interfere with their current medication.
The flu is bound to happen at some point, but as long as you are prepared, the senior will not have to suffer from any health complications because of this virus.
If you or an aging loved one are in need of elder care in Stonybrook, NY or the surrounding areas, contact the caring professionals at Star Multi Care Services today at (631)956-8835. We are the Right Choice for Home Health Care Services!
Source: http://www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/flu-guide/fact-sheet-elderly-people#1
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