Auburn Hill Senior Living in Midlothian, Virginia

Healthy Senior Living: Tips on Protecting Yourself Against Flu and Colds

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Winter brings many things, including flu season and illnesses such as the cold. Now is the time for seniors, their loved ones, and their caregivers to be vigilant against contracting a cold or the flu.

On top of the normal winter seasonal sicknesses, COVID-19 adds another layer of illness. This makes it even more essential to protect yourself against the spread of germs and illnesses.

As seniors age, their immune system weakens. This means protecting yourself is all the more vital to staying in good health. Here are easy tips to follow to help keep you in good health this winter. 

  1. Get vaccinated—A flu shot is a top priority. It reduces your chance of getting the flu. It also lowers the severity of the flu if you do get it and protects you from complications.
  2. Make washing your hands a priority—Washing your hands with soap gets rid of cold and flu germs. Rub your hands together for at least 20 seconds with soap. Scrub thoroughly and wash your wrists. Hand sanitizer is another option but use ones with at least 60% alcohol to kill germs.
  3. Have an active lifestyle—By exercising even moderately, you boost your immune system. Moderate exercise can lower your risk of getting sick by one-third.
  4. Don’t touch your face—An easy way for cold and flu germs to get into your system is when you touch your face. This includes your eyes, nose, and mouth. If it’s a habit, you may have to consciously try and break it.
  5. Cleaning is your friend—Keeping your living space germ-free is another easy tip. Use disinfectants regularly. Clean regularly the doorknobs, light switches, and counters. Change cleaning sponges and rags often. Soak them in bleach as well.
  6. Clean your mobile devices—Gently but thoroughly clean your mobile device with a sanitizing wipe or alcohol. But be sure to avoid getting it wet.
  7. Avoid sick people—As hard as it may be at times, avoid sick people. If you do come in contact with a sick person, don’t touch or hug them unnecessarily, which includes avoiding shaking hands.
  8. Avoid crowds—Avoid large groups of people, especially indoors and particularly in places with poor ventilation. You may want to avoid traveling also, as that’s a prime way to catch a cold or the flu due to exposure to sick people and germs. When you go out, wear a mask.
  9. Drink liquids—Drinking water or hot tea regularly is helpful in the fight against germs.
  10. Take Vitamin C—Eat foods that are a good source of Vitamin C such as bell peppers, strawberries, tomatoes, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, and white potatoes. You may also take Vitamin C supplements but check with your medical provider.

A CARING-FIRST ENVIRONMENT

Senior living communities like Auburn Hill Senior Living 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 Auburn Hill Senior Living, 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 tour or download a brochure today!