Helping Seniors Stay Healthy During Flu Season

Older adults are at significantly increased risk of hospitalization from flu-related complications such as pneumonia and inflammation of the heart and brain. As trusted healthcare professionals, pharmacists play a vital role in helping seniors stay protected during flu season.

You can support them by:

1. Encouraging annual flu vaccination.

2. Reminding patients to wash their hands frequently, cover their mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and avoid close contact with anyone who is sick.

3. Promoting healthy routines that support immune health, such as eating balanced meals, staying active, getting enough sleep, and staying hydrated.

4. Advising patients to keep their homes clean and well-ventilated to reduce germ buildup and support recovery.

5. Providing ongoing counseling by discussing how to manage mild flu symptoms (e.g. runny nose, sore throat etc.) and advising patients to seek medical care if flu symptoms worsen or cause breathing difficulties or chest pain.

   
   

Take a moment to discuss this with your patient today. A simple conversation at the pharmacy can go a long way in keeping seniors safe and well this flu season.