8 Ways Seniors Can Avoid the Flu

Posted by Steve Jones

Everyone knows what comes after the fall season: flu season. Seniors aged
65 and older are at a greater risk for contracting flu and the effects
can be more detrimental than in younhttps://franchise.qualicare.com/toronto-south/about-us/blog/8-ways-seniors-can-avoid-the-flu/ger adults. Here are eight tips you
can take to help protect yourself against the flu this year.

• Get a flue shot. Even though flu shots are only 70-90% effective, it will decrease your
  chances of getting it. It can be even more important for people with asthma,
  diabetes, and heart or lung disease as they are at an even greater risk
  for flu than the rest of the population.
• Bring your own sanitizing wipes to the store or use the ones provided at grocery stores to wipes down
  grocery carts. Wipe down surfaces and objects that could be contaminated
  with flu and other germs.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth without washing your hands first. Germs spread this way.
• Wash your hands frequently. When a sink with soap is not available, use hand sanitizer.
• Get plenty of sleep. Sleep helps boost the immune system.
• Drink plenty of water.
• Talk to your doctor about taking immune system-boosting supplements such as echinacea and vitamin C.
• Lower your sugar intake. Sugar depresses the immune system for several hours and will lower your
  resistance to disease.

Find your closest Ontario flu shot clinic with this handy online locator
http://www.health.gov.on.ca/en/public/programs/publichealth/flu

What do you do to prevent illness in your household? Share with us in the
comments below!