Holiday season is also flu season. As family and friends gather together, not everyone has taken the time to protect themselves from this year’s flu strain. Sneezing, running noses and coughs linger in every room of the house. Although your mother or father taught you not to expose yourself to others if you are sick, you don’t want to miss out on the festivities, especially with your loved ones. However, elderly home care providers suggest that it is best to prepare yourself for the flu season.
If your parent has not had their flu or pneumonia shot, it may be in their best interest to have the vaccine. A pneumonia shot should be renewed every five years. According to elderly home care specialists, a simple cold for you may turn into pneumonia for your aging parent. That little sneeze or cough that you or your children spread along with the holiday cheer may not be the best gift to give this holiday season.
Although sharing the holiday season on a specific day may be important, elderly home care aides suggests postponing your family gathering if needed to encourage wellness. Instead of coughs and fevers, and waves instead of hugs, get together when all are healthy. However, if you gather together, and you risk transmitting the flu, remember to use anti-bacterial soaps and wipes to reduce the passing of germs.
Your older parents have more fragile immune systems as they become senior citizens. Taking the steps to keep them safe will ensure a happier holiday for all. Elderly home care experts state that if your parent were to get ill their recovery time would take longer than yours. Often their recovery is not complete and may result in hospitalization. If your parent has another underlying disease or disorder, an additional complication could set in. For a Merry Holiday, prepare for the flu season, and prepare for health.
