How to Lower Your Risk of Lower Respiratory Infections in Winter
Common colds, flu, pneumonia, bronchitis, and other respiratory tract illnesses are common during winter. Generally, cold temperatures lower immunity in the nasal cavities and make us more susceptible to viruses. As temperatures drop, seniors in Lexington are more likely to spend more time indoors, allowing viruses to pass more easily from one person to another. Fortunately, there are several proven ways to help elderly loved ones stop the spread of germs and lower their risk of lower respiratory illnesses this wintertime. This blog discusses tips to help seniors in Lexington lower their risk of lower respiratory infections in winter.
What Is the Difference between Upper and Lower Respiratory Infections?
Lower respiratory infections differ from upper or general respiratory infections by the affected area of the track. Generally, lower respiratory infections affect the areas below the larynx, including the sinuses, throat, lungs, or airways. These infections include pneumonia, bronchitis, chest infection, and tuberculosis. On the other-hand upper respiratory infections occur in the structures around the larynx or above. These infections include the common cold, laryngitis, sinusitis, and epiglottitis.
Steps to Increase Wellness to Reduce the Risk of Respiratory Infection
The following are some of the easy and practical ways to help seniors reduce the risk of respiratory infections:
Practice Healthy Habits
Seniors should be encouraged to take actions that can help protect themselves and others from infections and stop the spread of germs. These include avoiding crowded places to reduce vulnerability to outbreaks of respiratory diseases. Seniors are generally at a higher risk of chronic illnesses and should avoid crowds as much as possible this winter. Other healthy habits include regular handwashing and covering the mouth and nose when sneezing.
Get an Appropriate Vaccination
Caregivers and families should ensure their elderly loved ones gets an appropriate vaccine during autumn, just before winter. However, in case autumn has passed, they can still get a vaccine until March. Vaccination can help lower the risks of illnesses, hospitalizations, and death. Some of the crucial vaccines that seniors should get this winter include:
- Flu vaccine
- Pneumococcal vaccine
- Shingles vaccine
- Tetanus vaccine
Practice Wellness
Taking care of general well-being in winter can reduce the risk of lower respiratory infections. During the colder months, many people feel more tired, sleep more, and put on weight. However, a sedentary lifestyle can lower the immune system's effectiveness in fighting off illnesses. Seniors in Lexington should be encouraged to set aside time for activities that promote physical and mental health. Some wellness activities to enhance general well-being include:
- Eating a nutritionally balanced and varied diet
- Keeping as active as possible
- Staying in touch with friends and family
- Getting adequate sleep
- Meditation
Stay Warm
A drop in temperature can affect the body's ability to fight viruses and infections. Cold air inflames the lungs and inhibits circulation, ultimately increasing the risk of lower respiratory conditions. Studies suggest keeping warm over the winter can help prevent colds, flu, and more severe illnesses such as bronchitis and pneumonia. Families and caregivers should ensure seniors' homes are heated to at least 8°C (64°F). It is also advisable to install a thermometer to track room temperatures and ensure it is warm and comfortable.
Contact Senior Helpers Lexington
At Senior Helpers Lexington, we understand the challenges caregivers and families in Lexington, Georgetown, Nicholasville, and Shelbyville face preparing seniors for freezing winter. We provide in-home care services to help seniors transition safely through changing seasons. Senior Helpers is the leading provider of in-home senior care, with services ranging from specialized care for those with chronic diseases to companion services for seniors seeking assistance with daily activities. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.