How Home Care Helps Protect Seniors During Flu Season

This time of year, it is especially important for older adults to receive the flu vaccine. The flu shot remains the most powerful and effective tool available to help prevent influenza and its potentially serious complications.

Each year, a new flu vaccine is developed to protect against the most current strains of the virus. Because the flu virus changes annually, getting vaccinated every year is essential. The vaccine is widely available and easy to obtain. According to the National Institute on Aging, receiving a seasonal flu shot may reduce hospitalization by approximately 70% and reduce the risk of death by about 85% among older adults who do not live in nursing homes.

Understanding the Flu Season

Flu season can begin as early as September and last as late as May. Health experts recommend getting a flu shot early in the season so the body has enough time to build immunity. It typically takes about two weeks after vaccination for protection to develop. Even if you miss the early window, getting vaccinated later in the season can still provide important protection.

Influenza, commonly referred to as the flu, is a highly contagious respiratory illness. It spreads easily through coughing, sneezing, talking, or even singing. Because older adults often have weaker immune systems, they are more vulnerable to both catching the virus and developing complications.

Common Flu Symptoms

Flu symptoms can vary in severity and may include:

• Headache
• Fever
• Cough
• Fatigue, which may last two to three weeks
• Chest discomfort
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Body aches

For many people, flu symptoms improve within a few days with proper rest and hydration. However, for older adults, the flu can become much more serious and may require medical attention.

Why Seniors Face Greater Risk

Older adults are at a higher risk of complications because the flu can worsen existing chronic conditions such as heart disease, lung disease, asthma, or emphysema. In some cases, the virus can lead to high fever, pneumonia, dehydration, or hospitalization.

According to WebMD, individuals over the age of 84 face the highest risk of death from seasonal flu complications, followed closely by those over 74. Young children under the age of four also face elevated risks, but seniors remain one of the most vulnerable populations.

Possible Flu Complications in Seniors

Flu complications in older adults may include:

• Pneumonia
• Dehydration
• Worsening of chronic medical conditions, including heart and lung disease

It is critical to seek medical care immediately if any complications arise. Early treatment can help prevent symptoms from becoming more severe and reduce recovery time.

Managing Flu Symptoms Safely

In addition to medical treatment, the following steps can help older adults recover more comfortably:

• Get plenty of rest
• Drink fluids to stay hydrated
• Consult a doctor or pharmacist before taking over-the-counter cold or flu medications to avoid drug interactions or complications with existing conditions

For many families, professional home care services provide additional peace of mind during flu season. Trained caregivers can assist with daily activities, medication reminders, hydration, and monitoring symptoms to ensure seniors remain safe while recovering at home.

Support You Can Trust

At Ezra Home Care, our mission is to provide reliable, compassionate home care services that support both older adults and their families. We understand that every situation is unique, especially during flu season, and personalized home care can make a meaningful difference in safety, comfort, and overall well-being.

Whether it’s help during recovery or ongoing support, trusted home care services allow seniors to remain in familiar surroundings while receiving attentive care tailored to their needs.

For additional information please contact us at 617-527-9000 or info@ezrahomecare.com

Resources:

1) WebMD

2) Hebrew Senior Life

3) Care.com