The flu vaccine for seniors helps protect older adults from the more serious complications of the seasonal flu.
2020 has been quite a year, with the pandemic requiring everyone to adopt to a new normal that included social distancing, face coverings and more frequent hand-washing. While the pandemic has disrupted many of our day-to-day routines, one thing it has not changed is the importance of the flu vaccine for seniors.
Flu season typically begins in the fall and extends into the spring, with the peak coming sometime between December and February. This year, health experts are urging everyone, but especially seniors and individuals with underlying health conditions, to get the flu vaccine as soon as possible in order to be protected from the most serious complications, which may include bronchitis, pneumonia and inflammation of the heart, brain or muscles.
Health experts are particularly concerned about this year’s flu season because it will coincide with a potential uptick in COVID-19 positive patients who may need to be hospitalized. Each year, between 50 – 70% of seasonal flu-related hospitalizations are attributed to people over the age of 65. Experts are hoping to head off the possibility of an overwhelmed healthcare system by strongly encouraging flu vaccines for everyone over six months of age.
To help ensure seniors are equipped with the most up-to-date information regarding flu shots, Visiting Care Giving Services has prepared the following frequently asked questions:
At Visiting Care Giving Services, our compassionate St. Charles caregivers can help ensure a senior you love is protected from the flu by providing accompanied transportation to get the flu vaccine. Additionally, our team can plan and prepare healthy meals to help seniors maintain nourishment and can provide encouragement for regular exercise to help maintain strength and balance. We are proud to offer seniors in St. Charles and the surrounding areas a wide array of home care services that can be customized for each client, ensuring he or she lives a healthy and active life.
To learn more about our professional St. Charles caregivers and the home care services local families trust, reach out to us at (636) 493-9058 to schedule a free in home assessment. For a full list of all the communities where we provide care, please visit our Service Area page.