Do you help to care for an elderly loved one? If so, it is important that you know how dangerous the flu can be for elderly adults. Many elderly adults have passed away because of flu symptoms. If you want to help protect your elderly loved one, you should learn how to help them fight off the flu. For one thing, they should probably get the flu shot. However, this is something you should get approved by their doctor first.
There are some other things that can be done to help prevent and fight off the flu, as well.
Eating the Proper Diet
One of the ways that you can help your elderly loved one to fight off the flu is by making sure they are eating the proper diet. They should be eating a lot of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. These increase their intake of phytonutrients and antioxidants, both of which can help fight off the flu. These two things will boost your loved one’s immune system. When you or your loved one’s elder care providers go shopping, be sure to get them things such as barley, quinoa, oats, grapes, blueberries, leafy greens, oranges, and broccoli.
Keeping Hydrated
Another way that you can help your elderly loved one fight off the flu is by making sure that they keep hydrated. The reason for this is because in the winter the air is much drier. If your loved one keeps hydrated, they can prevent their nose’s mucous membranes from drying out. This is necessary because dried out mucous membranes are a breeding ground for bacteria and viruses.
Getting Enough Sleep
You can help your elderly loved one to fight off the flu by making sure they are getting enough sleep, as well. Sleep helps to boost the immune system. The better someone’s immune system is, the better they are able to fight off illnesses. Since your loved one is likely to be around a lot more people during the holiday season, getting enough sleep will help them to fight off the bacteria from these people.
Avoiding Hugs and Kisses
To keep your elderly loved one healthier and to prevent the flu, you should have them avoid hugs and kisses for a while. This is especially important during the colder months of the winter. Even if someone they want to hug or kiss doesn’t have the flu, they could still be carrying the germs related to this illness. Your loved one could then catch the flu if they hug or kiss this person.
These are some of the tips for fighting off the flu. To help keep your loved one healthier, make sure they stick to these tips.
Sources: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/highrisk/65over.htm
https://www.cdc.gov/flu/prevent/actions-prevent-flu.htm
https://www.cdc.gov/flu/pdf/freeresources/general/influenza_flu_homecare_guide.pdf
If you or an aging loved one are in need of Elder Care Services in Rockville Center 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!
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