This winter season will be unlike any namely because of flu season now overlapping with a global pandemic. It’s important for our senior population to stay safe by continuing to follow all CDC recommendations, especially as it relates to being out with other people, going to doctors’ appointments, and visiting with family for the holidays. Here are our tips and reminders for staying safe and healthy this winter season.
Keep Up with All the CDC Recommendations
Now is not the time to let up on any health and safety protocol. Face coverings, social distancing and hand sanitizing remain as important as ever. All of these efforts not only protect you from COVID-19, they reduce your risk of getting the flu, colds, or any other number of illnesses. These are smart practices we should be consistently sticking to!
Utilize Contact-Free Pick-Up and Delivery
Even during flu season, you can’t avoid the need to get your essentials like food and toiletries. If you’re among the high-risk crowd or simply want to play it extra safe, consider utilizing the many new services that have come from the pandemic including contact-free pick-up and delivery. You can order your groceries online and simply drive to have them loaded into your car curbside without ever leaving your vehicle. You can also have them directly delivered to your doorstep. For many reasons, this is safe, smart, and convenient.
Explore the Option for Telemedicine
Whether you’re under the weather or simply needing a general check-up, going into the doctor’s office can increase your risk of picking up an illness you did not already have. At minimum, this could be the common cold. Or it could be much more serious. To reduce this risk, ask your doctor if they offer a telemedicine option where you can visit by video call and describe your health and symptoms virtually. Many common ailments can be treated by video, helping you avoid the doctor’s office.
Invest in At-Home Entertainment
And if there’s one great investment to make this year, given flu season and COVID-19, it’s in at-home entertainment. For many, these are devices that let you stream new movies or television shows. This could also be ordering some books online, or supplies for a hobby you enjoy. If we’re all settling in for a long winter indoors, the best thing we can do is get comfortable!
Reach Out for Help
Finally and most importantly, don’t go it alone. This season is bound to be hard on all of us both mentally and physically. The feeling of isolation, loneliness, and even illness can be compounded by the winter blues. Stay in touch with friends and family, and it may even be helpful to have a professional in-home caregiver visit on a regular basis to help with essential tasks and boost morale. If you’re struggling in any sense, be sure to reach out!
What other tips do you have for staying healthy and safe this flu season? Leave a tip in the comments below!
