Flu Season Never Really Ends and It Could Cause Complications for Seniors

By Andy Niska | March 24, 2017 |

Senior Care in South Hill WA: Flu Season Never Really Ends and It Could Cause Complications for Seniors

Now that we’re into spring and winter is in the rearview mirror, it’s easy to overlook some issues, especially for an elderly person who may have recently been hospitalized. First and foremost, it’s important to be aware that hospital readmissions are possible.

What is a hospital readmission?

This is anytime somebody has to be readmitted within 30 days of their discharge. It can be due to any number of complications, but is, unfortunately, far too commonly the result of a failure to get proper support, to focus on recovery, and follow doctor’s instructions.

Now that winter is now officially over, flu season might be thought of as a thing of the past, too. Many people assume flu season only runs from October to about March or April. In reality, the flu can occur anytime of the year. The weaker a person’s immune system is, the more susceptible they are to contracting certain viruses, including the flu.

What can be done to help?

For those who have an elderly family member returning home following a hospital stay, whether it was due to major surgery, a medical emergency, pneumonia, or even injuries sustained in a slip and fall accident, it’s essential to have the right support on hand.

Many family members step up to take care of their loved ones, especially during difficult times like this. What they fail to think about, though, is what they might be bringing in with them.

The flu virus is still out there.

Many experienced home care aides, especially those who work for agencies, are acutely aware of the bacteria and viruses that exist everywhere. It’s one of the reasons they often wash their hands diligently with antibacterial soap and even bring antibacterial lotions with them wherever they go.

Some may even wear masks, especially if they believe they may have been exposed to certain viruses or bacteria while out and about. If a senior is recovering at home following a medical emergency or major surgery, their immune system will most likely be even weaker than it was before. That’s why it becomes even more important to pay attention to various illnesses that exist all around us.

Did you notice somebody not feeling well recently?

If you’re taking care of an elderly family member, such as a parent or grandparent, you may have noticed a coworker, spouse, or even a friend who didn’t quite seem as healthy at the moment. Could they have had the flu? Do they have a cold? Could you be carrying that bacteria or virus?

Pay attention still, even though flu season may feel like it’s officially over because it never really ends.

If you or an aging loved one are considering senior care in South Hill, WA, please contact the friendly staff at Love at Home Senior Care, today. Call (509) 204-4088

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Andy Niska

Owner at Love In Home Senior Care

Andy has over 20+ years experience in the medical community and has a true compassion for seniors. With a degree in Health Care Administration, he developed a background in a variety of health care services that only comes from first hand experience. While working as a manager of a large clinic and as an account executive for medical suppliers. Andy has built valuable relationships with the medical community.

His role in Love In Home Senior Care is to educate people on what care choice is the best fit for the senior and their family while attempting to make this decision as stress-free as possible for everyone involved.

This decision making process should be smooth and stress free for everyone, including all family members and their loved ones. Having access to people with experience (like the team at Love In Home Senior Care) to assist you along the way can help this process. With an extensive background in health care, Andy has the experience needed to guide and direct your loved one to the choice that is the best fit.