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Connect with a Lifestyle Leasing ConsultantBlog | December 12, 2024
Preparing for Cold and Flu Season in an Older Adult Community
As the weather turns colder and we gather indoors, cold and flu season is upon us. For older adults, it’s especially important to take proactive steps to stay healthy and avoid these common illnesses. At Trico LivingWell senior living community, we’re committed to providing all our residents with a safe and supportive environment. That’s why we’ve put together these helpful tips to keep you feeling your best throughout the season, whether you’re enjoying our independent living, assisted living, or memory care options.
Boosting Immunity in Our Older Adult Community
Staying healthy starts with building a strong foundation. Here are some ways to boost your immunity:
- Get vaccinated: The flu vaccine is highly recommended for older adults as it can help prevent serious complications from the flu, like pneumonia. At Trico LivingWell, we provide influenza shots on-site for all residents on an annual basis to keep our community safe and healthy.
- Avoid crowds: Being in large groups in poorly ventilated spaces can increase your chance of catching the flu. At Trico LivingWell, one way we mitigate this risk is through our air filtration system—individual fan coils, heat recovery ventilators, and HEPA filters maximize our air quality and flow to keep residents healthy.
- Prioritize Nutrition: A healthy diet plays a crucial role in supporting your immune system. Focus on nutrient-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and lean protein. Our dining services at Trico LivingWell offer a variety of delicious and healthy options to help you maintain a balanced diet.
- Stay Hydrated: Dehydration is an often overlooked health risk for older adults, given that as we age, our bodies naturally contain less water than children or even younger adults. Water is necessary for nearly every bodily function and plays a role in keeping our immune system strong.
- Stay Active: Exercise helps boost your immune system and keep you feeling your best. Try going for a walk or doing some light stretching. At Trico LivingWell, we offer our residents access to our wellness center and a variety of fun exercise classes to stay active.
- Rest and Recharge: Adequate sleep is crucial for a strong immune system. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. Our comfortable and peaceful living spaces at Trico LivingWell are designed to promote restful sleep.
Simple Steps for Cold and Flu Prevention in Senior Living Communities
In addition to boosting your immunity, there are simple everyday actions you can take to minimize your risk:
- Wash Your Hands Frequently: Regular handwashing is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after being in public areas or touching common surfaces.
- Practice Social Distancing: While we encourage social interaction and community engagement at Trico LivingWell, it’s also important to be mindful of personal space during cold and flu season. Avoid close contact with people who are sick, and if you’re feeling unwell, consider taking a break from group activities to prevent spreading germs.
- Cover Coughs and Sneezes: Always cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your elbow. Dispose of used tissues properly, and wash your hands immediately.
- Keep Your Surroundings Clean: Regularly disinfect frequently touched surfaces in your living space, such as doorknobs, light switches, and remote controls.
Focusing on Wellness at Trico LivingWell
At Trico LivingWell, we’re dedicated to supporting the health and well-being of our residents. By following these simple tips, you can help protect yourself from colds and flu and enjoy a happy and healthy season, whether at home or in our senior living community.
Contact us today to learn more about our older adult community. Our caring staff is always available to answer your questions and provide assistance.
