How to Manage the Common Cold & Flu for Seniors

While catching a cold is common for everyone, seniors, with their slightly more vulnerable health, require special attention to both prevent and manage common cold symptoms effectively. As we age, our immune system doesn’t fend off infections as well as it did when we were younger. 

Is it a Cold or the Flu?

When you get a stuffy nose or a tickle in your throat, the first thing you may want to understand is whether your symptoms are from a common cold or the flu. Here is a quick guide explaining the differences.

Cold symptoms are usually milder than the flu and tend to come on gradually. Key symptoms include:

• Congestion
• Runny nose
• Sore throat
• Mild cough
• Headache

Flu symptoms usually have a more sudden onset. Some key signs of the flu are:

• Persistent high fever and chills
• Muscle aches and/or headache
• Pronounced fatigue and weakness
• Dry cough

Let’s explore some practical tips to keep seniors in Kitchener, Waterloo, and Cambridge protected and healthy during the chilly season.

Preventing Colds

Prevention is always the best approach when it comes to the common cold. Here are some simple yet effective measures seniors can take:

Frequent Handwashing

Regular handwashing is a powerful defense against germs. It’s a simple practice that can significantly reduce the risk of catching a cold. You want to wash at least 20 seconds to eliminate germs. Try singing Happy Birthday twice and that will get you washing your hands, nails and wrists long enough. If you are a senior that finds it challenging to use soap and water often, hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol will also kill cold germs.

Try to avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth when you are feeling symptoms so the germs do not enter your body.

Prioritize Sleep

Adequate rest strengthens the body’s immune system, making it more resilient to germs and illnesses. Ensure seniors get enough sleep to bolster their defenses. Evidence indicates that 7 – 8 hours of sleep benefits seniors guarding against the common cold and flu.

Nutrient-Rich Diet

Incorporate foods high in essential nutrients, particularly Vitamin C-rich options like citrus fruits. Nutrient-dense foods help fortify the body against germs and support overall well-being.

Stay Away from other People who are Sick

It may not always be possible, however, try to keep your distance from people who are sick and large groups of people where the space is not well ventilated. If you need to be around a sick person, limit your contact and avoid unnecessary touching like shaking hands or hugging.

See Your Doctor when Symptoms Appear

Getting specific cold prescriptions from your doctor, as soon as possible, can make the flu milder and prevent serious flu complications. For older adults, It could mean the difference between just having the flu or developing pneumonia.

Prescriptions for colds typically work best if they’re started within 2 days of getting sick, but starting them later can still be helpful – especially for seniors because they’re at such high risk of complications.

Managing & Relieving Colds

When a cold does strike, there are steps seniors can take to ease discomfort and speed up recovery:

Rest and Recover

Encourage plenty of rest to allow the body’s natural healing mechanisms to work efficiently. Quality sleep aids in a speedier recovery.

Chicken Soup

Our mothers always said Chicken Soup is good for the soul and also for relieving colds as the steam helps a stuffy nose by opening the nasal passages, the warm broth can soothe a sore throat and all the ingredients, especially in a home made soup can help our white blood cells fight infection.

Clear Sinuses

If you can handle spicy foods they can help combat a cold as well as hot beverages, and the use of humidifiers or essential oils. These methods can help clear airways and provide comfort.

Stay Hydrated

Adequate hydration is crucial for overall health, especially when the body is fighting off a cold. Ensure seniors have easy access to water and aim for the recommended daily intake.

Consider Over-the-Counter Remedies

Echinacea, herbal supplements, and conventional medications can offer relief from common cold symptoms like congestion, coughing, and headaches.

With thoughtful prevention and practical symptom management, seniors can navigate the winter season with greater ease and comfort. At Promyse Home Care, we’re here to provide additional care and support.

For a Free Home Care Assessment by a Nurse, call us at 519-208-2000. 

Let’s ensure you or your loved one enjoys a healthy and fulfilling day-to-day life.