Last year the flu season was one of the deadliest in decades. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports influenza killed 80,000 people. Millions more became sick from the respiratory virus and almost one million people were hospitalized. It’s a fact that older adults are at the greatest risk of serious complications from the flu. This is because seniors often already have weakened immune systems from other medical conditions and chronic illnesses.
Symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people also may have vomiting and diarrhea. You can have the flu and have respiratory symptoms without a fever.
Flu Prevention
- Get the vaccine. CDC recommends a yearly flu vaccine as the first and most important step in protecting against the virus. Furthermore, the flu shot doesn’t just help you avoid the flu. It also minimizes your chances of secondary complications from the virus which include pneumonia, stroke, and heart attack. People 65 years and older should get a flu shot and not a nasal spray vaccine. There are regular flu shots that are approved for use in people 65 and older and there also are two vaccines designed specifically for seniors: High-Dose Flu Vaccine and Adjuvanted Flu Vaccine. Ask your doctor which one is best for you.
- Take action. A few simple measures like washing your hands throughout the day and using a tissue to touch your face with your hands can help reduce your chances of getting the flu. Try to avoid contact with anyone who shows any signs of a cold or flu. If you think you have the flu stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone (except to receive medical care).
- Use antiviral drugs. Call your doctor once you develop symptoms of the flu. A physician can prescribe an antiviral drug which can help alleviate the severity of the flu and possibly avoid a hospital stay. These drugs work best when they are stated within 48 hours of getting sick. Antiviral medications are especially important for high-risk individuals like older adults.
Disclaimer
All content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only about senior living topics. The information provided on this blog is accurate and true to the best of our knowledge but there may be errors, omissions, or mistakes. Assisted Living Made Simple makes no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information on this site or information found by following any link on this site. The staff at Assisted Living Made Simple are not medical, psychological, legal, or tax professionals. Seek advice from a professional regarding your specific situation.
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May is Melanoma and Skin Cancer Awareness Month, an important time to talk about protecting the skin we live in. Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, and Florida’s year‑round sunshine makes awareness especially important for seniors. Many older adults grew up in a time before sunscreen was widely used, which means decades of sun exposure may increase risk today. Melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer, can develop quickly — but when caught early, it is highly treatable. Other types of skin cancer, like basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma, are also common in seniors and often appear on areas that have seen the most sun over the years: the face, ears, neck, arms, and hands. What to look for: Early detection saves lives. Seniors should watch for: • New spots or moles • Changes in size, shape, or color • Spots that itch, bleed, or don’t heal • Anything that looks different from the rest Dermatologists often use the ABCDE rule to help identify concerning changes: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter larger than a pencil eraser, and Evolving over time. Simple ways to protect your skin: • Wear a wide‑brimmed hat and lightweight long sleeves when outdoors • Use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and reapply regularly • Seek shade during peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) • Avoid tanning beds • Schedule regular skin checks with a dermatologist, especially if you’ve had sunburns in the past Skin cancer awareness isn’t about avoiding the outdoors — it’s about enjoying it safely. Sunshine can lift our spirits, support healthy sleep, and encourage movement, but it’s important to protect ourselves along the way. With a few mindful habits and regular check‑ins, seniors can stay active, confident, and sun‑smart all year long.