As the cold and flu season approaches during the COVID-19 pandemic, you might be exceptionally worried about your loved ones catching such illnesses. After all, when matured adults contract a seemingly simple cold or flu, it can lead to significant complications and even death. Additionally, with their weakened immune system, it is easier for them to catch a common cold or flu from others. But does this mean that you should limit your loved ones’ interactions with their family members, friends, visitors, or children? Not necessarily. Instead, here are some tips to take care of your loved ones during the upcoming cold and flu season!
Good Quality Sleep
It is important for your loved ones to get sufficient quality sleep. This will help to strengthen their immune system and reduce the chances of them contracting the cold or flu. Specifically, you can encourage them to lie down at a 45-degree angle to prevent mucous from gathering in their sinus cavities. Moreover, it prevents infection and is a more comfortable angle to rest. Additionally, if you spend a lot of time with your loved ones, you should also take care of your sleep. If you do not do so, you also run the risk of spreading the germs to your loved ones.
Get the Flu Vaccine
This goes without saying. Not only does the flu shot reduce the risk of getting the flu, but it also reduces the intensity of the illness and protects against other complications. According to the American Lung Association, all adults over the age of fifty need to get a seasonal flu shot, even if they already have the COVID-19 vaccine. Health experts also recommend getting the flu vaccine from October to November for the best results. Nonetheless, you should still recommend your loved ones to receive the shot for its benefits, even if it is later during the flu season.
Wash or Sanitise Hands Thoroughly
One of the most effective ways to eliminate cold and flu germs is to wash your hands with soap. You should encourage your loved ones to wash their hands for at least 20 seconds, and thoroughly wash their nails, backs of hands, between fingers, and wrists. To help them better remember how long they should be washing their hands, ask them to sing the happy birthday song twice! But if it is inconvenient for your loved ones to use soap and water, they can always use hand sanitizers. Remember to get them hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol in them, as any hand sanitizer with a lower alcohol percent is ineffective in killing germs.
Stay Away from Sick People
While mature adults tend to have a weaker immune system and can contract sickness from others easily, it does not mean they should be isolated from their loved ones. Staying social is, in fact, one of the most important things your loved ones need. Instead, they should only keep their distance from people who are ill. Additionally, remind them to wear masks and limit unnecessary physical interactions like hugging.
