Winter can be challenging for seniors, especially when it comes to staying on top of their health. Among the various concerns is the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), a common yet potentially serious illness for seniors. As a caregiver, you'll want to take time to better understand RSV, why it's particularly risky for seniors, and how you can help protect your elderly loved ones this winter season.
What is RSV?
Respiratory Syncytial Virus, commonly known as RSV, is a viral illness that leads to infections of the lungs and respiratory tract. While RSV can infect people of all ages, it can be particularly severe in seniors. RSV is a contagious disease, spreading primarily through droplets from coughs or sneezes and direct contact with contaminated surfaces.
For seniors, the risks associated with RSV are increased due to age-related changes in the immune system, making it harder to fight off infections. Older adults with chronic heart or lung disease are especially susceptible to severe symptoms. These can include persistent coughing, wheezing, breathlessness, and a feeling of pressure or pain in the chest.
How to Help Protect Seniors from RSV
Protection against the Respiratory Syncytial Virus starts with good hygiene practices. Regular handwashing, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and not touching face with unwashed hands can reduce the chances of getting infected by RSV.
Furthermore, while there is currently no RSV vaccine for adults, it's critical to keep up-to-date with other recommended vaccines, as they can improve overall health and immunity.
Recognizing when to seek medical attention is equally important. If a senior shows symptoms like difficulty breathing, high fever, or a bluish color in the lips or fingernails, it may be a sign of a severe RSV infection requiring immediate medical attention.
How to Create a Safe and Healthy Home Environment
Creating a safe and healthy environment at home is crucial to protecting seniors from Respiratory Syncytial Virus. Keeping the home clean and sanitized, especially frequently touched surfaces, can help reduce the spread of the virus. Also, ensuring proper ventilation and maintaining a warm indoor temperature can help prevent respiratory infections.
How Professional In-Home Care Can Help
The winter months bring an added layer of concern when maintaining senior health. With increased risks like Respiratory Syncytial Virus, it becomes even more essential to implement preventative measures and maintain a safe, healthy environment for seniors.
In-home care professionals can ensure rigorous hygiene practices, including sanitizing surfaces and promoting handwashing at home. They provide personalized and comprehensive care, contributing significantly to the well-being of individuals at risk of or affected by RSV. In-home carers can also help create a supportive environment conducive to recovery.
Get Support From Senior Helpers Cherry Hill
With proper preventative measures, it is possible to minimize senior loved one’s risk against the Respiratory Syncytial Virus. We encourage residents in Cherry Hill, Voorhees, Haddonfield, Maple, and Pennsauken to explore our services at Senior Helpers Cherry Hill to see how we can support the wellness and safety of their elderly loved ones. Contact us today, and let's ensure a safe and healthy winter for our seniors.