With the flu season in full swing, it’s fair to assume you want to do everything you can to avoid getting it. Adults over 65 years old are not only more susceptible to catching the bug, but they are also more susceptible to its harmful effects. This means the severity will be greater, and the duration will be much longer. Many seniors never fully recover.

Flu prevention is the best way for seniors to protect their health and overall well-being. Here are a few ways they can stay well during the holiday rush.

4 Ways to Avoid the Flu during the Holiday Season




    • Wash Your Hands Frequently



One of the simplest ways seniors can protect themselves from getting the flu is by washing their hands frequently throughout the day. Hand washing is important year-round, but becomes especially important during the holiday season. This is because more people are out spreading germs, and the flu virus is more prevalent.

To effectively clean your hands, make sure to use soap and clean running water. The soap kills the germs while the running water washes the remaining bacteria down the sink.


    • Avoid Public Areas



During the holidays, stores are packed with shoppers. Unfortunately, more people also means more germs.

This can put older adults at a greater risk of getting sick when they go out. Because the immune system weakens with age, seniors catch the flu more easily than other age groups. It’s usually best for them to stay inside whenever possible.


    • Eat a Healthy Diet to Strengthen Your Immune System



When trying to avoid the flu, it’s essential to maintain a strong immune system. One of the best ways to support your immune system is by eating a healthy diet. This means consuming plenty of fruits and vegetables.

Due to age-related changes, older adults tend to eat less and have less variety in their diets. This can cause deficiencies in certain essential vitamins and trace minerals that are necessary for a healthy immune system. This is a form of malnutrition commonly referred to as micronutrient malnutrition.

Seniors should do their best to meet their nutrition requirements so they can have the best chance at maintaining a healthy immune system.


    • Get a Flu Shot for Seniors



The flu shot is one of the most effective ways for seniors to avoid the flu. Look for one of the flu shots that are specially formulated for seniors. They will trigger a stronger immune response, resulting in a stronger immune system.

Seniors can be resistant to getting a flu shot due to the various myths out there. Most of them are just myths, and getting a flu shot is still considered one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of getting the flu. At the very least, a flu shot can drastically minimize the flu’s harmful effects.

Avoiding the Flu


Influenza prevention is the best way for seniors to protect themselves from the harmful effects the flu can have on their health.

To learn more about how to maintain your health, visit “Health Resources for Seniors.” There, you will find tons of resources for seniors who want to live a healthy lifestyle.