Health, Safety and Wellness | November 18, 2019

How Seniors Stay Healthy and Well in Cold Season

When the chilly season comes around, it means more than just snow and holidays. For many of us, it’s a time to focus on our defense against colds and viruses.

Luckily, there are plenty of things we can do in an attempt to prevent catching something this season. And here are a few ways that a senior living community can actually work in your favor:

When the chilly season comes around, it means more than just snow and holidays. For many of us, it’s a time to focus on our defense against colds and viruses.

Luckily, there are plenty of things we can do in an attempt to prevent catching something this season. And here are a few ways that a senior living community can actually work in your favor:

Flu Shots Are Your Friend.

This quick step may reduce your chance of the flu up to 60 percent, and it is often made readily available at your local pharmacy or senior living community.

Wash. Wash. Wash.

While this may seem obvious, one of the best defenses against germs and viruses is keeping clean. Aim for 20 seconds of scrubbing under running water for a better chance at a germ-free season.

Get Moving

A recent study shows that exercise could reduce your chance of a cold by up to a third. Staying active is a proven immune booster and could help you avoid those dreaded sniffles.

Keep Your Spaces Clean

Much like washing our hands, our living spaces can spread germs. This is where senior living services can come in handy, by assisting in those regular tasks that may keep areas cleaner and less germy.

Avoid High-Risk Areas

While living in a senior living community may mean living in closer quarters, you can still avoid highly populated public areas, like shopping centers or travel. And it goes without saying to avoid close contact with people who may already be sick.

Stay Hydrated

Not only can water help ward off illnesses, it’s an important part of our long term health as well. While eight 8-ounce glasses is a reasonable daily goal, it could be particularly helpful during cold and flu season, and some people may require more or less.

As always, a healthy diet is recommended year round, but may be particularly helpful during cold season. Talk to your doctor or dietician about the best ways for you to get the nutrients you need to protect yourself against illnesses.

If you’d like to learn more about how senior living may help, check out our related links below, or contact a Brookdale senior living specialist today.

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