Retirement is a chapter of life full of opportunities for growth, exploration, and fulfillment. This time offers a chance to redefine your sense of purpose and discover yourself further. While retirement may be exciting for some, it is common for others to wonder how to find purpose and meaning during this transition that offers a great deal of free time. This blog post will explore the actionable steps you can take during this time to help uncover your passions, find meaning, and lead a purpose-driven day-to-day life in retirement. 

Common Worries About Retirement [1]

It is natural for individuals to experience a range of concerns and uncertainties about retirement as they age. One common concern is the fear of losing a self of purpose and identity that they once may have had in a career. Many people build their identities around their careers, and the idea of leaving that career can create feelings of emptiness and a lack of motivation. People may begin to wonder what they will do with their time, which can create feelings of anxiety and depression. 

Another aspect of retirement that is worrisome to many is finances. Concerns about having enough savings to maintain one’s desired lifestyle. Covering medical bills, and handling unexpected costs can create anxiety. The fear of outliving one’s savings can be very scary, leading to apprehension about financial stability, and even putting off retirement until it is necessary. 

Social isolation is another common worry that many older adults face. For those who have spent years in a busy and social work environment, the thought of not having a circle of people to talk to daily can be unsettling. The workplace often provides a built-in group of friends, and the idea of losing these daily interactions can make one feel lonely. 

Finding Purpose in Retirement

Retirement marks a significant life transition, offering newfound freedom and opportunities. But how do you find purpose and fulfillment in this exciting chapter of your life? 

Reflect on Your Passions

Retirement is the perfect time to reconnect with interests and hobbies that may have taken the backseat during your career-oriented years. Perhaps you have always wanted to learn how to paint, or you used to write poetry and want to get back into it. Start by reflecting on activities that have brought you joy in the past. Rekindling these activities can not only bring you happiness but also infuse your life with purpose. Some ideas include:

• Artistic activities: Take up painting, drawing, creative writing, learning an instrument, joining a choir, knitting, or photography.
• Physical activities: Practice tai chi, yoga, gardening, running a marathon, working out, swimming, hiking, golf, or dancing. 
• Culinary activities: Learn how to cook or bake dishes you have never made before. 
• Entrepreneurial Activities: Start a small business, launch an online store, or offer consulting on your area of expertise. 
• Wellness: Start meditating, having spa days, journaling, or practicing mindfulness. 

Set Meaningful and Realistic Goals

Goals provide direction and a sense of accomplishment. During retirement, consider setting both short-term goals and long-term goals that coincide with your passions. These goals can range from learning a new language to running a marathon. The possibilities are endless! Remember, your goals can get as creative as you like, but you are more likely to achieve realistic goals. As you achieve these goals, you will experience a sense of satisfaction and confidence. 

Keep Learning 

One great thing about retirement is that it offers ample time for you to invest in doing whatever you like. Although you may have felt like your dedication to learning left once you stopped school or your career, there are always new things to learn in life. Challenge yourself to explore subjects you have always been curious about, but perhaps never got to delve deep into in the past. Enroll in classes, attend workshops, and explore online courses for these subjects. Lifelong learning not only keeps your mind sharp but provides opportunities for social interaction and networking with people with similar interests. 

Volunteer and Give Back

Contributing and giving back to your community can be an incredibly meaningful experience. Take the time to identify causes or organizations that align with your values and beliefs. This may be mentoring young adults, partaking in environmental conservation efforts, volunteering and your local animal shelter, or supporting local charities. Giving back to causes you are passionate about can give your life a sense of meaning and make a positive impact on the lives of others. 

Maintain Meaningful Connections 

Cultivating and keeping social connections is important for your overall well-being at all times, but especially during retirement when you may feel lonely [2]. Join clubs, groups, or organizations of people who share your interests. Engaging in social activities not only helps with feelings of isolation but exposes you to new experiences and perspectives that you may not have gained alone. Additionally, reach out to old friends with whom you have lost touch. You may be surprised by how much you connect with old acquaintances. Friendships formed during this phase of life can be particularly fulfilling. 

Create a Healthy Routine

Having a healthy routine is extremely important during retirement. Although you may feel like you have just gotten a break from the 9-5 routine, having a structured daily schedule can help provide a sense of purpose and stability [3]. Plan your days with a balance of activities that align with your goals. This routine may include exercise, learning sessions, talking to friends and family, and allotting time for relaxation. 

Adventure

It is never too late to explore new places and experiences. Traveling, no matter how close or far, can allow for a wealth of inspiration and self-discovery. Whether it is a leisurely road trip to a scenic spot, checking out a new town, or even international travel, these experiences can add an exciting layer of purpose to your life. 

Finding Purpose in Retirement with Senior Primary Care

Retirement is far from the end—it is a new beginning and an opportunity to find purpose and re-discover yourself. By finding purpose in reteirement and embracing your passions, setting goals, giving back, creating meaningful connections, and exploring new experiences, you can find a deep and lasting sense of purpose in this stage of your life. 

Our senior primary care services, including preventive care and chronic care management, at Greater Good Health is here to support you on your journey to purposeful retirement. Our team of dedicated healthcare professionals specializes in providing comprehensive care tailored to the unique needs of seniors. We understand that well-being extends beyond physical health, encompassing your emotional and mental wellness as well. Find a primary care clinic near you, and contact us today to schedule an appointment.

As the years go by, the importance of maintaining our brains’ health and functionality becomes increasingly evident. Even the idea of cognitive decline can be a source of anxiety and despair as we get older. The good news is that there are concrete steps we can take to support our brains as we age.

Brain Health and Aging

The human brain is often referred to as the “command center” of our bodies and undergoes vast changes as it matures. As we age, subtle changes occur in our cognitive functions. These changes are not a cause for immediate alarm, but rather a reflection of the brain’s adaptability. For example, with each passing year, memory may not be as quick to retrieve specific details, and the speed at which we process sensory information may start to slow down. Although these shifts can be noticeable, it is vital to differentiate between the normal progression of age-related changes and more serious cognitive disorders. 

What Causes Age-Related Brain Changes?

Why do our brains change so much as we age? As we get older, neurons, which are the cells responsible for transmitting information within our brains, may not fire as swiftly as they once did [1]. This can lead to a lag in the retrieval of memories, like recalling names, dates, or specific facts, that you could once recall effortlessly. The brain’s network of connections may experience gradual rewiring, which causes us to approach decision-making or problem-solving slightly differently. It is all part of the brain’s maturation process, and not all cognitive changes are indicative of cognitive decline. 

Normal Aging Brain Changes vs. Severe Aging Brain Changes

Although many cognitive changes are normal to experience, it is crucial to distinguish these changes from more severe cognitive impairments. For example, dementia is not a regular consequence of aging. Alzheimer’s disease, which is one of the most well-known forms of dementia, exhibits distinct and progressive cognitive decline that goes beyond the typical changes in cognitive function associated with age. Some of the most important cognitive impairments to be aware of are:

1. Alzheimer’s Disease[2]: This progressive neurodegenerative disorder affects memory, thinking, and behavior. As more time passes and the disorder worsens, it can lead to severe cognitive impairments that interfere with daily functioning. 
2. Huntington’s Disease[3]: This genetic disorder causes the progressive breakdown of nerve cells in the brain, leading to cognitive, emotional, and movement-related impairments. 
3. Vascular Dementia[4]: This subtype of dementia is caused by reduced blood flow to the brain due to conditions like strokes or small vessel disease, which leads to memory loss and problems with reasoning. 
4. Lewy Body Dementia[5]: This condition involves the abnormal accumulation of proteins in the brain, leading to cognitive fluctuations, visual hallucinations, and movement issues. 
5. Parkinson’s Disease Dementia[6]: This cognitive decline occurs in individuals with Parkinson’s disease, causing problems with memory, attention, and problem-solving. 

Factors that Influence Brain Health as We Age

Although changes in cognitive function are normal to occur with age, and certain cognitive disorders are unavoidable, some factors influence overall brain health.

Diet and Nutrition

A balanced diet is an integral part of strengthening brain health. Foods rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins provide the building blocks necessary for optimal brain function. Some foods that enhance your brain’s health are[7]:

• Berries have high antioxidant content and can aid in protecting brain cells from oxidative stress. 
• Fish, particularly salmon, has a healthy dose of omega-3 fatty acids, which can support the brain’s structure and function. 
• Nuts and leafy greens enhance the brain’s nutritional arsenal. 

Physical Activity

Exercise is a key component of cognitive vitality. Getting regular physical exercises increases the blood flow to your brain, which promotes the growth of new neurons and neural connections[8]. A brisk walk, a swim, and even dancing contribute to the brain’s overall well-being. 

Mental Stimulation

Keeping your brain active and engaged through mental challenges gives you a daily “mental workout,” which can help keep things sharp. Puzzles, crossword puzzles, and sudoku games are all activities that strengthen your cognitive processes. Reading stimulates your imagination and expands your knowledge base. Additionally, learning a new instrument or skill invigorates your brain’s capacity for adaptation and problem-solving. 

Quality Sleep

Getting quality sleep each night is so important for all areas of your health. During sleep, the brain consolidates memories, processes emotions, and gets rid of unnecessary information. Establishing a healthy sleep schedule can contribute to improved cognitive function and emotional well-being. 

How to Maintain Brain Health

Maintaining brain health is crucial as we age. Thankfully, there are many ways to prevent brain health issues and keep your cognitive ability strong.

Stress Management

We all feel stress from time to time. It is a normal and healthy response that helps protect your body from potential dangers. However, a large amount of stress for long periods of time can quickly take a toll on our brain health. Chronic stress triggers the release of hormones that can impair cognitive function over time[9]. Therefore, learning how to effectively manage your stress can mitigate these effects. Some stress management techniques include meditation, mindfulness, and deep breathing exercises. 

Social Interaction

Humans are naturally social beings, and interacting with others is an important part of our well-being. Engaging in social activities, like spending time with friends and family, volunteering, or joining a club, strengthens emotional health and fosters cognitive resilience. Meaningful connections with others give us opportunities for stimulating conversations and an exchange of ideas, which keeps our brains active and engaged. 

Avoiding Harmful Habits

The day-to-day choices we make have a lasting impact on our brain health. Unhealthy habits like smoking, excessive drinking, and drugs have been linked to cognitive decline and an increased risk of neurodegenerative disorders[10]. Working towards quitting these habits helps reduce their impact on your brain’s health. Not to mention, quitting these habits will have an overall positive effect on your overall health!

Regular Check-Ups

Getting regular check-ups for seniors by your primary care physician or specialist is a preventative measure against potential health issues that could negatively impact your brain health. Common health issues like hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol not only affect your body but also have a great deal of influence on your cognitive function. By detecting and managing these conditions as early as possible, you are being proactive in maintaining your brain health and overall health. 

Brain Training and Cognitive Exercises

The brain has an incredible ability to adapt and rewire itself, which is known as neuroplasticity. Engaging in targeted brain training exercises can help enhance memory, attention, and problem-solving skills. There are many apps and games that are designed to stimulate cognitive functions and offer an enjoyable way to keep your brain in shape, such as Lumosity. Other ways to stimulate your brain and enhance its functions are through jigsaw puzzles, word puzzles, math puzzles, and many more. 

Senior Primary Care Services for the Greater Good

While cognitive decline and illnesses underscore the complexities of aging, they also create a need for early detection and preventative measures. By embracing a lifestyle that prioritizes mental and physical engagement, maintaining social connections, and making mindful choices, we can empower ourselves to shape the trajectory of our cognitive health. 

Greater Good Health understands the impact of preserving senior mental health, which is why we offer preventive care and other practices in our senior healthcare services. Find a primary care clinic near you, and contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Every year, the flu, short for influenza, brings about health concerns due to its widespread impact. Sure, all of us know at least a little bit about the flu. However, just as the flu mutates, new general and flu myth questions form each year that are worth answering. We are here to help you get a grasp on this common illness and learn how to protect yourself and your loved ones against it. 

Common Flu Questions and Answers

Understanding the flu and taking proper measures to prevent its spread is crucial for maintaining good health during flu season, and all year round. By recognizing flu questions and answers about symptoms, getting vaccinated, practicing proper hygiene, and staying informed, you can help protect yourself and your community from the potential dangers of the flu.

What is the Flu?

The flu is a type of viral infection that mainly affects the respiratory system. It is caused by the influenza virus which leads to a wide range of symptoms from mild to severe. Despite a common misconception, the flu and the common cold are not the same at all. The difference between the flu and a common cold can be found in the intensity and duration of the symptoms. Cold symptoms are often milder and last for a shorter duration of time, while the flu can cause more severe symptoms that last longer [1].  

How Does the Flu Spread to Others?

The flu is spread through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or even talks, especially without properly covering their mouth. It can also be contracted by touching a surface that has the curs on it, or when touching the mouth, nose, or eyes. To reduce the risk of spreading or contracting the flu, practice good hygiene by washing your hands frequently, especially after being in contact with other people, and avoiding close contact with those who are sick. 

What are the Common Symptoms of the Flu?

Flu symptoms can vary depending on the current strain but usually include fever, chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, and fatigue. These symptoms typically appear suddenly and can become very severe. While most people recover from these symptoms within a week or two, the flu can lead to complications such as pneumonia, especially in high-risk groups. 

How Long Does the Flu Last?

The duration of the flu varies from person to person, but it typically lasts between a few days to about two weeks. However, some symptoms, like fatigue and cough, can linger even after the worst of the illness has passed. 

Who is at Risk for the Flu?

Although anyone can contract the flu, there are groups of people more susceptible to severe flu complications. These groups include young children, elderly individuals, pregnant women, and those with underlying health conditions like asthma, diabetes, and/or compromised immune systems. These individuals need to take extra precautions to avoid getting the flu and to seek medical attention promptly if they do become infected. 

Why is an Annual Flu Vaccine Important?

Despite popular belief that the flu vaccine will only make you get sick, getting vaccinated against the flu is one of the most effective ways to prevent infection and reduce the severity of symptoms. Flu vaccines are designed to protect your body against the most common strains of influenza viruses each season. Flu vaccinations stimulate the immune system to produce antibodies that fight off the virus quickly and effectively if you were to construct it. It is recommended to get a flu shot annually, to protect against new strains, ideally before flu season begins. 

How Can the Flu be Treated?

Although there is no cure for the fly, there are various tried and true treatments that can help alleviate symptoms and shorten the duration of the illness. For example, getting ample rest, staying hydrated, and over-the-counter medications can provide relief from the fever, pain, and congestion that comes with the flu. Additionally, antiviral medications can be prescribed by a healthcare professional to reduce the severity of duration of the flu, especially if taken early in the illness. 

Are COVID and the Flu the Same Thing?

The flu and COVID-19 are caused by different viruses and therefore are different. Many people confuse the two because they can share some similar symptoms, such as fever and cough. However, there are distinct differences between them. CPVID-19 has its own set of symptoms and complications that has been associated with a wider range of effects on the body. 

Can You Spread Flu Before You Have Symptoms?

Yes, you can spread the flu to others even before you begin showing symptoms. You are likely most contagious in the first 3 to 4 days after the illness is contracted. This makes it all the more important to practice good hygiene and stay home if you think you may have come into contact with someone who has the flu. 

Can Your Immune System Fight Off the Flu?

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle during flu season can help support your immune system’s ability to fight off infections. By eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, getting regular sleep, managing stress levels, exercising regularly, and taking appropriate vitamin supplements, you can help maintain a strong immune system. However, it is important to note that while these immune-boosting strategies may help make you less susceptible to the flu, there is no way of fully preventing the flu.  

When Should You See a Doctor for the Flu?

If you experience severe symptoms such as trouble breathing, persistent chest pain, confusion, sudden dizziness, or severe vomiting, it is important that you seek medical attention promptly. This is especially vital for high-risk individuals and anyone with chronic health conditions, such as seniors. Older adults and elderly individuals can also greatly benefit from specificially visiting a clinic for senior primary care.

Flu Treatment for Seniors at Greater Good Health

At Greater Good Health, we’re committed to providing top-notch treatment for the flu in seniors and answering your flu questions. Your loved one’s health is our priority, and we’re here to offer expert care, comfort, and peace of mind. Schedule an appointment with Greater Good Health today, and let us be your partner in preserving senior health. Find a senior primary care clinic near you.

Flu season—the period of heightened respiratory infections that occurs every year—is a time of concern for medical professionals and individuals alike. Unfortunately, along with the flu itself comes a handful of myths and misconceptions about it. It’s important to understand these flu myths while staying healthy during flu season.

10 Common Flu Myths

These myths not only create confusion but also contribute to the mass spread of misinformation, which can lead to people failing to prepare for or treat influenza properly.

1. The Flu Shot Can Give You the Flu

One of the biggest flu myths is the belief that getting the flu shot can give you the flu. This misconception is often based on experiences where individuals may have felt slight symptoms shortly after receiving the vaccine. However, we must understand that the flu vaccine contained inactivated, or weakened, virus particles that cannot cause the flu to develop. Individuals may experience mild symptoms, like soreness at the injection site or a low-grade fever, which are typically short-lived and are signs that the body is building immunity to the virus. 

So, why do flu shots contain virus particles in the first place? Flu vaccines work by exposing the immune system to small particles of the flu virus. These pieces are typically proteins found on the surface of the virus, that gave been inactivated, or killed. When the immune system recognizes these proteins as foreign, it triggers an immune response, which produces antibodies that are specific to these proteins. By priming the immune system with these proteins, the body learns how to recognize and fight off the virus. This way, if you were to come into contact with the actual virus, your body will be significantly more likely to quickly fight it off [1]. 

A wealth of scientific studies support the safety of the flu vaccine. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) [2] as well as the World Health Organization (WHO)[3] recommend the annual flu vaccination to protect oneself and others against the flu. 

2. Only Seniors Need to Worry About the Flu

Althoughthose who need senior primary care and those with underlying health conditions are at a higher risk for flu-related health complications, it is a misconception to believe that only this group must worry about the fly. Influenza is a highly contagious virus that can affect just about any individual, no matter what age. Thousands of children and young adults are hospitalized due to flu-related complications each year, despite being young [4]. 

3. Natural Remedies Are More Effective Than the Flu Vaccine

Natural remedies, like taking elderberry and vitamin C, are often promoted as alternatives to the flu vaccine. While these remedies may offer some immune support, they cannot replace the comprehensive protection provided by the vaccine. Relying solely on natural remedies may leave you susceptible to the virus and its potential complications. This is not to say that you shouldn’t combine natural remedies into your vaccine protection plan. However, you mustn’t rely on these remedies as your sole form of protection. 

4. Hand Sanitizers Alone Can Protect You From the Flu 

There is a common assumption that hand sanitizers can effectively prevent the flu. While hand hygiene is a crucial element in limiting the spread of germs, the flu is primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets, making it very important to address other preventative measures as well. Maintaining good hand hygiene, along with getting vaccinated, practicing respiratory etiquette (covering coughs and sneezes), and avoiding close contact with sick individuals, all act as strategies to reduce the risk of flu transmission. 

5. The Flu is Just a Bad Cold 

It is a common misunderstanding to equate the flu with a severe cold. Although both illnesses share certain symptoms, the flu tends to be more severe and can lead to serious health concerns. These concerns may include pneumonia, hospitalization, and even death, particularly in high-risk groups, like the elderly, young children, and people with compromised immune systems. 

6. The Flu Isn’t a Serious Illness

Some individuals downplay the severity of the flu, considering it a minor inconvenience rather than a serious illness. However, the data paints a different picture. In the United States alone, the CDC estimates that flu-related hospitalizations have ranged from 140,000 to 810,000 annually since 2010, with deaths ranging from 12,000 to 61,000 [5]. Personal stories from individuals who have experienced severe flu cases attest to its seriousness. The flu can lead to a rapid decline in health, and seeking medical attention when symptoms arise is critical to prevent complications.

7. You Don’t Need a Flu Shot Every Year

Given that the flu changes over time, the idea of needing the flu shot annually may seem excessive to some people. However, this myth ignores the dynamic nature of the flu. Flu strains change from season to season, the vaccine is updated accordingly to match the circulating strains. The annual flu shot is made to provide the most effective protection against the strains for the specific season. Therefore, skipping yearly vaccinations could leave you vulnerable to new strains and decrease your overall protection against the flu. 

8. You Can Get the Flu From Cold Weather 

Cold weather may make the flu more likely to spread, but it cannot cause the flu. People tend to spend more time indoors when it is cold outside, meaning that they are in closer proximity and more likely to catch the flu from each other. However, being out in the cold without a jacket or with wet hair does not make you more susceptible to catching the flu, despite what many individuals believe. 

9. Antibiotics Can Cure the Flu

A common misconception is that antibiotics can effectively treat the flu. Antibiotics are designed to target bacterial infections, not viral infections like the flu. Influenza is caused by a virus, which means that antibiotics have no impact on the course of the illness [6]. Antiviral medications specifically designed to target the influenza virus may be prescribed by a healthcare professional in some cases. These antivirals can help reduce the severity and duration of symptoms if taken early in the course of the illness. It’s important to rely on accurate medical information and consult a healthcare provider for appropriate treatment options.

10. If You Have Had the Flu Once, You Are Immune Forever

Having the flu once does not mean you have lifelong immunity against all future strains of the virus. The flu is known for its ability to mutate and evolve, resulting in different strains circulating each year. While the previous infection might provide some level of immunity against that specific strain, it does not guarantee protection against new strains that may emerge. This is why annual flu vaccinations are recommended. The vaccine is formulated to target the most prevalent strains for that specific flu season, providing the best chance of immunity against the strains likely to circulate.

Overcoming Flu Myths in Senior Primary Care at Greater Good

At Greater Good, we understand the importance of prioritizing the health and well-being of our senior community members. With flu season upon us, it’s crucial to ensure that our seniors receive the best possible care. Our services for primary care for seniors include flu treatment for adults who are older. Let’s work together to keep our seniors healthy and protected. Take action now by scheduling an appointment with Greater Good. Find a primary care clinic location near you today.

As the warm summer air turns into brisk autumn winds, flu season begins. The flu, short for influenza, is a contagious viral infection that can cause mild to severe illness, and even lead to life-threatening complications among vulnerable individuals [1]. Each year, flu season causes a surge in infections, leading to an increase in absences from work, reduced productivity, and overall discomfort/inability to perform daily tasks. Thankfully, we can address flu myths and provide plenty of ways to safeguard yourself and your loved ones by knowing how to stay healthy during flu season.

What is the Flu?

As previously mentioned, the flu is a viral infection that is primarily spread through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks close to other individuals. There are 3 main types of human-affecting influenza viruses: A, B, and C. Influenza A and B viruses are the cause of seasonal flu outbreaks, while influenza C is responsible for mild respiratory illness, and is less common [2].

What are Common Signs or Symptoms of the Flu?

Symptoms of the flu include a range of mild to severe symptoms, such as fever, chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, fatigue, and even gastrointestinal issues like nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea [3]. 

How to Prevent the Flu with Shots and Vaccinations

Because there are constantly new strains of the flu, every person should get vaccinated each year. The flu vaccine is designed to stimulate your body’s immune response against specific strains of the virus. While the vaccine may not guarantee complete immunity, it can significantly reduce the severity and duration of the illness if you were to contract the flu. Flu vaccinations are recommended for most individuals above the age of 6 months, particularly those in high-risk groups, like seniors or those with respiratory conditions [4].

How to Get a Flu Shot

The great news is that getting a flu shot is a very straightforward process. There are multiple places where you can receive one, such as your doctor’s office, most pharmacies, public health clinics, and even some workplaces. The ideal time to get a flu shot is in the early fall before the flu season officially begins. Flu shots are usually made available from late summer to early spring, so make an appointment earlier rather than later! 

If you have any concerns regarding getting a flu vaccination, consult with your primary care provider. 

Other Ways to Prevent the Flu

Although there’s no way to 100% guarantee you won’t contract the flu, there are many ways to help reduce your chance of catching it. Along with getting vaccinated, try these strategies [5]:

• Practice Good Hygiene: Properly washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is an essential habit to adopt to protect against the flu and other illnesses. Additionally, avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth. Touching these vulnerable areas can easily transfer germs from your hands to entry points. If you cough or sneeze, cover your mouth with a tissue or your elbow, which can prevent the spread of the virus to others. 

• Get Adequate Sleep: Strive to get 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. Getting adequate sleep is crucial for your overall health and immune function, which can help fight against the flu and make you less likely to catch it. 

• Manage Stress: Prolonged stress can weaken your immune system, making you more likely to contract the flu. To combat this, engage in relaxation techniques, like meditation, yoga, and spending time in nature. 

Natural Remedies for the Flu

If you do contract the flu, many natural remedies can help alleviate its symptoms and promote a faster recovery, such as [6]:

• Staying hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, like water, tea, and clear broths, to stay hydrated and help thin mucus secretions. 

• Drinking herbal teas: Ginger and chamomile tea can help relieve nausea and reduce inflammation. Echinacea and elderberry teas are also known for their immune-stimulating effects. Tea, in general, has soothing properties and can help ease the soreness of your throat. 

• Inhaling Steam: Steam inhalation can help ease congestion and reduce nasal inflammation and pressure. To do this, fill a bowl with hot water, drape a towel over your head to create a tent, and breathe in the steam for a few minutes. 

• Gargling with Salt Water: Gargling with warm salt water can help soothe a sore throat and reduce inflammation. To do this, mix a half-teaspoon of salt into a cup of warm water and gargle it several times a day. 

• Consuming Honey: Honey has antibacterial and soothing properties that can help ease coughs and sore throats. Adding a spoonful of honey to warm water, or tea, or just consuming it on its own is a great idea!

• Increasing Vitamin C, Zinc, and Probiotic Intake: Vitamin C-rich foods, like citrus fruits, strawberries, kiwis, and bell peppers can be consumed to help support your immune system. Zinc can help shorten the duration of the flu if taken within 24 hours of symptom onset. Zinc can be taken in tablet form, or through Zinc-rich foods, like nuts, seeds, legumes, and whole grains. Finally, consuming probiotics through tablets or probiotic-rich foods, like yogurt, can help support gut health and strengthen the immune system. 

When to Seek Medical Attention for the Flu

Although natural remedies can help with flu symptoms, it is important to reach out for medical attention if symptoms get bad enough. Seek medical help if you experience difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain, severe dehydration, confusion, or bluish lips or face [7]. Early treatment is crucial for those especially in high-risk groups, as they are more vulnerable to flu complications. 

Treatment and Flu Shots for Seniors at Greater Good

Staying healthy during flu season is extremely important, and requires a combination of preventative measures, healthy habits, and community-wide effort. Taking these steps not only protects yourself but also helps protect vulnerable individuals from the flu and complications that may come with it. Let’s make flu season a time of proactive health protection and support for one another through flu treatment for adults who are older. Contact us today to schedule a senior primary care appointment with Greater Good Health to receive flu shots or treatment. Find a senior care clinic near you.