Cold & Flu Season Tips for Seniors

When temperatures drop and the sun sets earlier, cases of colds and flu often rise. While spending time indoors during the winter can shield you from chilly weather, it can also increase your exposure to viruses that spread easily in enclosed spaces. Stay well this winter (and all year long!) with these cold and flu season tips for older adults, courtesy of Wesley Pines, a premier senior living community in Lumberton, NC!

Know the Symptoms

Recognizing the signs of illness early can help you take the right steps to support your immune system and reduce the risk of passing germs to others. Keep an eye out for these common cold and flu symptoms:

• Runny nose, congestion, and cough
• Sore or irritated throat
• Muscle aches, body pain, and chills
• Fatigue or headaches

Because symptoms of colds, flu, pneumonia, and even COVID-19 can overlap, it’s important to monitor how you feel. If you experience a high fever or symptoms that last more than a week, contact your doctor or visit an urgent care clinic. Older adults, in particular, may have weaker immune defenses or underlying health conditions that make complications more likely if illnesses go untreated. 

Smart Hand Hygiene

Good hand hygiene is one of the easiest and most effective ways to protect yourself and those around you from many kinds of illnesses. Washing your hands regularly and using hand sanitizer can significantly reduce the spread of germs — especially during winter, when viruses can linger longer in cool, dry air.

Stay healthy this cold & flu season by:

• Washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Using hand sanitizer when soap and water aren’t available.
• Coughing or sneezing into your elbow to contain germs.
• Always having tissues easily accessible.
• Avoiding touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth, until your hands are clean.

Remember Your Flu Shot

One of the most effective ways to stay healthy this cold & flu season is to get your annual flu vaccine. As we age, our immune systems naturally become less resilient, making it easier to catch infections. Vaccines give your body a head start by helping your immune system recognize and fight off viruses more efficiently.

Vaccines can:

• Lower your risk of contracting the flu
• Reduce the severity of symptoms if you do get sick
• Protect people you see, like your friends and loved ones — especially those with weaker immune systems

In addition to your flu shot, talk with your doctor about other important vaccinations and booster shots, like those for tetanus, shingles, COVID-19, and pneumonia. Some vaccines are updated regularly to target new strains, so staying current each year is an important part of staying healthy this cold & flu season.

Fuel Your Immune System with Your Diet

The saying “You are what you eat” rings especially true when it comes to your immune system. A nutrient-rich, balanced diet helps strengthen your body’s defenses, which can be especially helpful during winter months. 

While supplements can sometimes be beneficial, it’s best to check with your doctor before adding any to your daily routine. Try boosting your immunity naturally by incorporating these vitamin-rich foods into your meals:

• Vitamin B: Found in dairy, eggs, whole grains, and lean meats
• Vitamin E: Present in nuts, seeds, and avocados
• Vitamin C: Try citrus fruits, bell peppers, and broccoli
• Vitamin D: Found in salmon, tuna, egg yolks, and sunlight

Stay Hydrated

Hydration isn’t just for summer; it’s a year-round necessity. Staying hydrated helps your body transport nutrients, flush out toxins, and keep your organs and joints functioning properly.

Here are a few easy ways to maintain hydration:

• Drink fluids regularly throughout the day, even when you’re not actively thirsty.
• Eat water-rich foods such as cucumbers, celery, oranges, and watermelon.
• Warm up with herbal teas, soups, and broths (comforting choices that also help you stay healthy!)

Stay Active & Prioritize Rest

Regular movement supports both your physical strength and immune health. Staying active boosts circulation, enhances heart health, and helps your body detect and fight off viruses more effectively. Plus, exercise naturally reduces inflammation and helps you feel energized and focused.

Equally important is quality rest. Sleep is an essential need for your body, allowing it to repair itself and strengthen your various systems. Aim for 7 to 8 hours of sleep each night for both cognitive and immune system benefits.

Avoid Smoking

Smoking can significantly weaken your immune system and damage your lungs, leaving you more vulnerable to respiratory infections like the flu, pneumonia, and bronchitis. Over time, it also makes it harder for your body to heal and fight off illnesses.

The good news is that quitting has immediate and lasting benefits. Your lungs begin to recover, your immune system becomes stronger, and your overall health improves. This winter, take steps to protect your health by avoiding smoking, e-cigarettes, and other forms of smoke inhalation. 

Stay Healthy With Wesley Pines

At Wesley Pines in Lumberton, NC, we provide a caring and supportive environment to help you stay healthy year-round, and especially during cold and flu season! From comfortable, well-maintained living spaces to engaging wellness programs and personalized support, our community makes it easy to focus on your health, happiness, and peace of mind.

Contact us today to learn more about how Wesley Pines can help you live well and stay healthy this cold & flu season, and all year-round!