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Protecting Our Seniors: Top 3 Infections and How to Fight Back

Our golden years deserve to be golden, filled with health and happiness. But unfortunately, seniors are more susceptible to certain infections. Here, we’ll explore the top 3 and equip you with knowledge to keep your loved ones (or yourself!) healthy:

1. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs):

UTIs are the most common bacterial infection in older adults, especially women. While burning urination is a classic symptom, in seniors, it can manifest as confusion, falls, or incontinence. Prevention:

  • Hydration is Key: Encourage regular fluid intake throughout the day.
  • Emptying Completely: Double voiding (urinating twice in a row) ensures complete emptying.
  • Wiping Wisely: Front-to-back wiping reduces bacteria transfer.

Treatment:

  • Doctor’s Orders: A doctor will diagnose and prescribe antibiotics specific to the bacteria.

When to Call the Doctor for UTI:

  • Pain or burning sensation when urinating
  • Frequent urination, even in small amounts
  • Blood in the urine
  • Lower abdominal pain
  • Confusion, delirium, or a sudden change in mental state (especially in seniors)
  • Fever and chills

2. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV):

RSV is a common respiratory illness that usually presents as a bad cold. But for seniors, it can lead to pneumonia, a serious lung infection. Prevention:

  • Frequent Handwashing: Wash hands regularly with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
  • Social Distancing: Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Vaccination: While no RSV vaccine exists yet, a yearly flu shot helps prevent complications.

Treatment: Over-the-counter medication: Medications can manage fever, congestion, and cough. Supportive Care: Rest, fluids, and pain relief are crucial for recovery. Seek Medical Attention: If symptoms worsen or difficulty breathing occurs, seek medical help immediately. When to Call the Doctor for RSV:

  • Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
  • Wheezing
  • High fever (above 100.4°F) that lasts more than 3 days
  • Severe cough that worsens over time
  • Bluish tint around the lips or fingernails
  • Dehydration symptoms like dizziness, lightheadedness, or decreased urination

3. Influenza (The Flu):

The flu is a highly contagious respiratory illness that can be severe for seniors. Symptoms include fever, chills, cough, muscle aches, fatigue, and vomiting. Prevention:

  • Vaccination: Getting an annual flu shot is the best defense.
  • Healthy Habits: Maintain good hygiene, eat a balanced diet, and get enough sleep.

Treatment:

  • Antiviral medications: Early diagnosis and use of antiviral medication can shorten the illness and lessen complications.
  • Rest and fluids: Similar to RSV, rest and hydration are essential for recovery.
  • Doctor’s Visit: Consult a doctor if symptoms worsen or pneumonia is suspected.

When to Call the Doctor for the Flu:

  • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
  • Chest pain or pressure
  • Persistent vomiting or inability to keep fluids down
  • Confusion or delirium
  • Sudden dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Fever (above 100.4°F) that lasts more than 3 days (or any fever accompanied by severe vomiting or headache)
  • Worsening of chronic health conditions, such as heart disease or asthma

Remember: Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for all infections. If you notice any concerning changes in a senior’s health, consult a healthcare professional promptly. At The Arbors & The Ivy Assisted Living Communities we take our residents’ health and wellness very seriously. Here are a few ways we prioritize wellness.

  • We focus on preventative care and promoting healthy habits:
  • We offer flu and COVID vaccinations on-site every fall.
  • Our on-site fitness instructor leads low-impact exercise classes daily, promoting strength and balance.
  • We conduct monthly blood pressure checks and offer educational workshops on healthy living.
  • Describe nutritious meal plans designed by a dietician that consider individual needs.
  • Mention on-site exercise programs or fitness classes tailored for seniors.

Comprehensive Care:

  • Individualized care plans:
    • At The Arbors & The Ivy Assisted Living Communities, we work with residents, families, and doctors to create personalized care plans addressing specific medical needs for each individual resident.
    • We offer medication management services to ensure residents receive their medications correctly and on time.
    • We collaborate with pharmacies to make managing medications seamless.
  • 24/7 Support:
    • We have trained staff available around the clock to assist with daily activities and any health concerns that may arise.
    • We can offer safety checks, especially when someone is sick to ensure they are doing ok.
  • Communication and Collaboration:
    • At The Arbors & The Ivy Assisted Living Communities, we pride ourselves on our open communication channels between staff, residents, and families to ensure everyone is informed about health updates.
    • We have a variety of partnerships with local healthcare providers for specialist consultations or immediate medical attention when needed. Talk to your specific community for more information.

Holistic Approach to Wellbeing:

  • Mental and emotional well-being:
    • We offer a variety of activities and social events that promote mental stimulation and combat isolation, reducing stress and depression.
    • We can arrange for therapists and mental health services in the event our residents are ever in need of such services. 
    • We offer a Snoezelen space in our Memory Care area for relaxation, essential oils, and gentle hand massages.
  • Safe and Healthy Environment:
    • Our residents all live in a clean and well-maintained community with safety features like grab bars, handrails and emergency call systems.
    • We have infection control protocols to minimize the spread of germs throughout all our communities.
    • We take these infections very seriously and do everything we can to avoid the spread around the community. If we have more than a few cases we will close the dining room and activity programs out of an abundance of caution. Communication to all families around such events is our priority.