With the winter season quickly approaching, it’s important for everyone to take extra precautions in preventing the flu. Because seniors over the age of 65 are at an even higher risk for serious flu complications, the caring staff at GrandeVille Senior Living Community, the leading senior living community in Rochester, NY, are here to discuss a few steps your loved one can follow to prevent the flu this season.

3 Steps to Prevent the Flu

1. Avoid Crowded Places

During flu season, one of the most important precautions a senior can take is avoiding crowded areas, such as shopping malls or enclosed areas. If you can’t avoid this situation, it’s best to stay clear of anyone sneezing or coughing.

2. Get the Flu Shot

Every senior should get the flu shot as a protective measure before the beginning of the cold and flu season. If your loved one is in a senior living community or nursing home, the staff will most likely offer this vaccine. Otherwise, it’s also possible to obtain it from the doctor or local pharmacy. The shot contains a weakened form of the virus to allow the immune system to build up the defenses it needs to fight back.  

3. Wash Your Hands

Coming into contact with germs and then touching your mouth or eyes can increase your chances of contracting the illness. This is why washing your hands frequently is necessary for eliminating germs from the skin, especially before eating. If you don’t have access to soap or a sink, keep a bottle of alcohol-based sanitizer with you just in case.

The most effective way to prevent the flu this season is to get the flu vaccine early. To ensure your elderly loved one gets the care and assistance they need during the coldest season of the year, turn to the leading assisted living center in Rochester, NY, GrandeVille Senior Living Community. Call (585) 621-6160 to speak with a representative or visit their website for more information about the senior living community and their full list of services.