Jessica Sharer, Vice President of Clinical Excellence at Presbyterian Senior Living, offers her top tips for staying well.
Crisp air ushers in the golden hues of autumn. Bundling up and sipping hot cider are comforting fall traditions, but they also bring the unwelcome arrival of flu season. This season is when seniors are especially vulnerable to illness.
To help seniors stay healthy during these critical months, Jessica Sharer, Vice President of Clinical Excellence at Presbyterian Senior Living, shares expert health advice. This includes the importance of vaccinations, flu prevention and practical tips for boosting immunity.
Jessica has been with PSL since 2009. She is a Registered Nurse with 27 years experience in both the clinical and administrative sides of nursing. This experience has taught her that sticking with the basics is the best way for seniors to protect their health this time of year.
Common misconceptions surrounding vaccines
Being vaccinated is the most effective way to protect against the flu, Jessica says. In October, PSL communities partner with a pharmacy to provide a dedicated day for residents to have easy access to flu vaccinations in-house. Each community has its own day for the vaccination clinic. If a resident misses that day, PSL can arrange an alternative opportunity.
However, misconceptions about flu vaccines are common, especially among seniors.
“Some believe they’ll get sick from the vaccine, but that’s not true,” she says.
She notes the flu is highly contagious and spreads quickly, and that the vaccine takes about two weeks to provide protection. If someone becomes sick shortly after being vaccinated, it’s probable the body hasn’t had time to build immunity.
Another common misconception Jessica hears is if someone received the vaccine in a previous year, a new vaccination isn’t necessary. Inoculation is required each year.
“The vaccine changes every year to target the strain that’s expected to be the most prevalent,” she says.
How to prevent the flu
Jessica offers several practical tips for staying healthy during flu season, in addition to being vaccinated:
Wash your hands frequently. Regular hand washing is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent spreading the flu. Washing your hands removes germs from your hands before they can enter your body or be transferred to others. The practice is essential from October through March, the peak flu season, Jessica says.
Avoid crowds. Limiting exposure to large groups, especially in enclosed spaces, is important for seniors throughout flu season. This is particularly important for those with underlying health conditions. If possible, move group activities outside when the weather allows.
“You can also choose to wear a mask if you’re more at risk,” Jessica says.
Maintain healthy habits. Simple ways to boost the immune system include eating a nutrient-rich diet, being physically active, getting plenty of sleep, and staying hydrated. These all help the body fight off illness more effectively. Jessica also stresses the importance of seeing a health care provider regularly to monitor overall health.
Surround yourself with those who care
Seniors face unique challenges during flu season. Aging often results in health conditions that can lower immunity. This increases susceptibility to the flu. This is why being vaccinated and following preventive health measures are critical for seniors.
At PSL communities, team members take precautions to help keep residents safe, including being vaccinated against the flu. Those members who opt not to be vaccinated are required to wear masks during flu season to protect the residents they serve.
Family members and caregivers also play a significant role in helping seniors stay healthy. Jessica encourages them to learn about the importance of vaccination and be vaccinated. She also encourages them to limit in-person visits if anyone feels unwell to prevent the spread of flu.
By embracing these simple yet powerful steps, seniors can confidently navigate flu season. They can turn a vulnerability into an opportunity to safeguard their health and well-being. If you’re a PSL resident, be sure to look for information about and register for the flu vaccination clinic coming to your community in this month.
