VISITING ANGELS VERMONT 802-862-8777
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How Can Visiting Angels Protect Seniors from the Flu this Winter

Find out how home care services from Visiting Angels can help seniors in South Burlington, Montpelier, St Albans, and the surrounding areas in Vermont to avoid becoming ill during flu season

Most flu-related hospitalizations occur among vulnerable groups, especially adults 65 and older. Older adults' flu risk is more significant because of their weaker immune systems and susceptibility to more severe complications like pneumonia.

As healthcare costs associated with flu rise, it's more important than ever for seniors to take the proper measures to protect themselves this winter. If you are concerned about the health and well-being of a senior loved one during flu season, Visiting Angels South Burlington, VT is here to help with home care services.

How Our Home Care Services Can Help Your Senior Loved One During Flu Season

Flu symptoms, usually within two to ten days of exposure, can range from mild and annoying to severe and life-threatening. 

Some of the most common flu symptoms experienced by seniors include:

  • Vomiting and diarrhea

  • Chills

  • Fever or feeling feverish

  • Sore Throat

  • Cough

  • Headaches

  • Muscle or body aches

  • Runny or stuffy nose

  • Fatigue

When is it Time to take your elderly loved one to See a Doctor?

The following symptoms can indicate your senior loved one should see a doctor immediately:

  • Confusion

  • Inability to urinate

  • Difficulty breathing

  • Severe vomiting

  • Sudden dizziness

  • Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen

  • Worsening or chronic medical conditions

  • Inability to wake up

  • Symptoms that improve but then return with fever or worse cough

How to Protect Seniors from the Flu and Influenza

Visiting Angels of South Burlington, VT can provide home care services that can cater to seniors that need additional help due to sickness. There are several ways seniors and caregivers can protect themselves:

Get vaccinated: The flu vaccine is recommended by most healthcare providers, including nationwide public health experts. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimate that 64 percent of people over 65 have had the flu at least once in their lifetime. 

Practice Personal Hygiene: Personal hygiene is a great way to avoid spreading or catching the illness.

To help your elderly loved ones stay safe, encourage the following healthy hygiene habits:

  • Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds

  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.

  • Clean and disinfect home surfaces

  • Cover your coughs and sneezes.

Practice everyday prevention: Staying home when you're sick. If you have a fever, harsh cough, or extreme fatigue, stay in bed and drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.

The flu can be a major concern for seniors, but with appropriate planning and home care services from Visiting Angels South Burlington, VT, your loved one can lower the likelihood of catching the flu.

If you need additional at-home support for a loved one this flu season, reach out to your local Visiting Angels home care agency at 802-862-8777 to schedule a free in-home consultation.

Serving Burlington, Colchester, Montpelier, St Albans, and nearby areas

Visiting Angels VERMONT
78 Severance Green #106
Colchester, VT 05446
Phone: 802-862-8777
Fax: 802-862-2788

Serving Burlington, Colchester, Montpelier, St Albans, and nearby areas

Visiting Angels VERMONT
78 Severance Green #106
Colchester, VT 05446
Phone: 802-862-8777
Fax: 802-862-2788