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.