The Flu can be a challenging for anyone, but it becomes especially concerning when caring for older adults.
Most of us experience the flu and just take some rest, some medication, then it just disappears, but for those over 65, the flu can lead to much more serious health complications. Let's explore how the flu spreads, why older adults are particularly vulnerable, and how you, as a caregiver, can take proactive steps to protect both your loved one and yourself. How Does The Flu Spread? The flu is caused by the influenza virus. It is a highly contagious respiratory illness as it spreads from person to person.
A person with the flu can spread it to others before they even know they’re sick.
You can catch the flu by:
Through the air: When someone with the flu coughs, sneezes, or even talks, tiny droplets containing the virus are released into the air. you can get infected when you breathe in these droplets or if they enter your mouth
From surfaces – Touching a contaminated surface then touching your nose or mouth
Through direct contact with someone infected – Shaking hands, hugging, then touching your nose or mouth
What Are The Symptoms Of Flu?
Severity of the symptoms can vary. Symptoms to watch out for include:
Fever and chills
Headache
Muscle pain or body aches
Extreme fatigue or weakness
Sore throat
Runny or stuffy nose
Cough
Shortness of breath
Vomiting or diarrhea
Why Is the Flu More Dangerous for Older Adults?
Here's why the older population is more at risk:
A Weaker Immune System
A weakened immune system may struggle to fight off two infections simultaneously. If you're already battling the flu, your body may not be able to defend against a secondary infection, like pneumonia.
Increased Risk For Hospitalization and Death
According to the CDC, older adults make up 70-85% of flu-related deaths and 50-70% of flu-related hospitalizations each year. Makes Chronic Medical Conditions worse
Diabetes: The Flu may make it difficult to control blood sugar levels. Sick older adults may have a reduced appetite which can cause blood sugar levels to fall.
Heart Disease: About half of adults hospitalized with flu have heart disease. Flu illness is associated with an increase in heart attacks and stroke. A study has found that having a heart attack is 6 times higher within a week of confirmed flu infection.
How Caregivers Can Protect Older Adults (And Themselves) from the Flu
Get Vaccinated
The flu vaccine is the most effective way to prevent getting the flu. The vaccine protects not only you but also those around you.
There are flu vaccines designed specifically for older adults. Caregivers should also get vaccinated to help protect those they care for. The flu vaccine is safe and does not give you the flu. Most people have no problems after getting a flu vaccine. When side effects occur, they are generally mild and go away on their own.
Monitor Symptoms and Cases And Take Preventive Measures
Watch out for symptoms listed above then go to a health care provider to get the right medication and personalized advised for older adults, especially those with chronic conditions.
It’s also helpful to stay informed about flu outbreaks in your community so you can take preventive measures.
If flu activity is high and you need to go out, consider these steps:
• Wear a mask to reduce the spread of droplets
• Avoid touching your nose or mouth
• Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds before entering your home or after touching surfaces outside (or shaking hands)
• Carry a small hand sanitizer or alcohol for times when you can’t wash your hands
• Maintain social distance to reduce exposure
• Disinfect frequently touched surfaces at home
• Open windows or use a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter to refresh the air and reduce airborne viruses
Support the Body’s Defense Mechanisms Encourage older adults to get good nutrition and getting a good night sleep, and exercise to help their bodies fight infections Caregivers Should Practice Self-Care Caregiver burnout can make you more susceptible to illness and impact your ability to care for others. Take time for self-care by maintaining social connections, exercising, eating well, and getting enough sleep. Don’t hesitate to reach out for support from other caregivers, family members, local organizations, or government resources. Caring for Someone Who Is Sick
If you’re caring for someone who’s sick, continue following the precautions listed above, such as washing hands, wearing a mask, disinfecting surfaces, and improving air quality. Keep them away from others to reduce the risk of spreading the flu.
Keep an eye out for warning signs of complications, and seek immediate medical attention if any of the following occur:
Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
Persistent pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
Persistent dizziness, confusion, or difficulty waking up
Seizures
Not urinating
Severe muscle pain
Severe weakness or unsteadiness
Fever or cough that initially improve but then return or worsen
The flu might seem like a minor inconvenience for many, but for older adults, it can have serious consequences. As a caregiver, you are the key to keeping your loved one safe during flu season. By getting vaccinated, practicing good hygiene, and being proactive, you can significantly reduce the risk of the flu turning into a major health issue.
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This article is brought to you by Elder Love USA, a leading nonprofit provider of home care services in Riverside County, CA, San Diego County, CA, San Bernardino County, CA, Orange County, CA, Imperial County, CA, and Phoenix, AZ.
Our mission is to provide compassionate and affordable in-home care for older adults in need.
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