Tips for preventing infections for aging adults
Despite best efforts to eat right and exercise, natural aging will eventually cause changes in the body. An adult’s immune system has been fighting for their health for their entire life, and even if it’s still strong, it is less powerful than it once was. While elderly immune systems are not immunodeficient, they still do not respond efficiently to new or familiar antigens, according to the results of one study.
With a weakened immune system, the body can play host to infection much easier. Many aging adults are also dealing with health conditions or diseases that make them more susceptible. No matter your situation, the best practices for preventing infection are a great piece of knowledge to have on hand when you’re in a situation that seems risky.
Stay up to date on vaccines
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend a handful of vaccines for aging adults. These include the flu shot, COVID-19 vaccine, tetanus, and whooping cough shots. There are also vaccines your doctor may recommend once you reach the age of 55, like the shingles vaccine. Each vaccine is recommended at a different cadence, some annual and some not for ten years, so consult with your healthcare provider to see if you are missing any boosters.
Practice good hand-washing hygiene
Washing your hands is the basis of all cleanliness, and it’s so important that it has its own national day of awareness each Fall. Wash hands with soap and water when in public or high-traffic areas, especially after using busy door handles or public restrooms. Hand sanitizer works as well, but hand washing is more effective at killing and removing germs.
Clean common areas and shared surfaces
Even in your own home, you should regularly sanitize areas that touch food or objects used often, like doorknobs, faucet handles, and appliances. Some disinfectant spray on these areas will mitigate the spread of germs between people.
Take care of wounds
Whether a minor injury sustained at home or a more significant wound from a hospital operation, cleanliness is essential. Follow your doctor’s advice and clean the wound regularly before applying a clean bandage. Don’t forget to wash your hands first!
Finish your prescribed antibiotics
If you don’t do this, you are at risk of developing an antibiotic-resistant superbug. Even if you’re feeling better following an illness or infection, it’s important to finish all the antibiotics prescribed by your doctor so that the virus cannot get stronger and re-infect you. The second time around, the antibiotics may not be strong enough.
Avoid people who are sick
In the age of social distancing, many people are well-practiced at this type of prevention, but it doesn’t hurt to have a reminder. It’s not always possible, but if you know someone is sick with a contagious bug, it is best to keep your distance and see them when they are better.
A Visiting Angels caregiver can assist you in several related ways to better protect you from contracting an infection. If you struggle with mobility and have limited means to accomplish more laborious housework, an in-home caregiver can help you to keep common surfaces clean. They can also help with medication reminders, transportation to vaccine appointments, and overall hygiene. Visiting Angels offers a free in-home consultation with a caregiver who will listen to your needs and assess the best routes of care services for you going forward. Visiting Angels Barrington has caregivers available in Barrington, Algonquin, Palatine, Lake Zurich, Crystal Lake, McHenry, Woodstock, Cary and the surrounding areas. Reach out today to learn more at (224) 512-4180.