Flu Season is Coming: What Seniors Need to Know About Prevention

Reviewed By: Rebecca Anderson, FNP-BC

We all know how rough catching the flu can be, and yet, flu season seems to sneak up on us every year without notice. Flu season, which typically occurs between October and May, is a time when seniors are at an extra high risk of serious health complications. The flu, or influenza, poses a greater risk for adults over 65, as they are more prone to health issues caused by the flu than younger adults [1]. For seniors, preventing the flu means more than avoiding a pesky illness—it can be life-saving. This blog post highlights the importance of the flu vaccination, other prevention strategies you can take, and some important tips to keep in mind for the upcoming flu season.

Understanding Influenza Risk in Older Adults

Older adults who contract the flu often experience health issues other than typical flu symptoms. Compared with younger adults, they are at a significantly increased risk of hospitalization due to flu-induced complications like pneumonia, heart attack, and stroke [1]. The risk of death due to flu-related complications is 6 times higher among seniors [1]. This makes prevention and early treatment especially important in older adults.

There are many reasons behind seniors’ increased risk of flu-related complications. First, seniors’ immune systems generally decline with age, making them more susceptible to contracting the flu and experiencing more severe, prolonged symptoms [2]. Likewise, seniors also have a higher average number of chronic health conditions than younger individuals [3], which can be exacerbated by symptoms of influenza [4].

Unfortunately, there is a lot of misinformation spread about the flu and the need for vaccination and prevention. The myth that those who caught the flu last year are immune to it this year is particularly harmful [5], as it often keeps individuals from getting their yearly flu vaccination and taking preventative measures. These fast-spreading myths, combined with the fast-spreading flu, create a recipe for disaster when it comes to measures for keeping seniors safe. So, what can you do to ensure you are as protected as possible from the flu? Keep reading to learn more.

Vaccination: The Foundation of Senior Flu Prevention

Senior-Specific Vaccine Options

Getting a yearly flu vaccination is essential, especially for seniors. Older adults have many options when it comes to flu vaccinations.

First, there are standard-dose flu vaccines and high-dose flu vaccines. Standard-dose flu vaccines are the most common and are appropriate for most people under 65. High-dose flu vaccines, such as Fluzone High-Dose, contain four times more antigen than standard flu shots and are recommended for adults aged 65 and older to help boost immune response.[6].

Adjuvanted flu vaccines, such as Fluad, also target adults 65+ and include an adjuvant (an ingredient that stimulates a stronger immune response). This can be especially helpful for people with naturally weaker immune systems.[7]. Both high-dose and adjuvanted flu vaccines are proven to provide better protection for older adults compared to standard-dose versions.

The type of vaccine is not the only variable that matters when seniors get their flu shot. The timing of the vaccine also plays a large role in effectiveness. You should avoid getting the vaccine much earlier than flu season, if possible, as the protection may decrease as time passes [8]. The CDC recommends that seniors get their flu vaccines during September and October for optimal protection [8].

If these choices and timing considerations concern you, your doctor and pharmacist can help you make the best decisions regarding these options. It’s normal to have worries and questions, especially if you usually do not get the flu shot. However, protection against the flu is vital for your health. Talk to a healthcare professional to address your concerns and create a vaccination plan.

Beyond the Shot: Maximizing Vaccine Effectiveness

There are a few vaccines all seniors should consider getting in addition to the flu vaccine. These vaccines help maximize your health benefits and avoid common illnesses [9]:

Pneumococcal vaccine: Pneumonia is a serious lung infection and one of the leading causes of death among adults aged 65 and older, resulting in tens of thousands of deaths each year in the United States. [10]. The pneumococcal vaccine helps protect against pneumonia and other pneumococcal diseases, including meningitis and bloodstream infections. According to the CDC, all adults aged 65 and older should receive pneumococcal vaccination. Some adults younger than 65 with certain health conditions or risk factors may also be eligible.[9].Talk to your healthcare provider to determine which pneumococcal vaccine is right for you.
Shingles vaccine: The CDC also warns seniors about the dangers of shingles, a condition caused by the same virus as the chicken pox. Many people think that shingles is a non-serious skin condition, but it actually affects the nerves and causes a slew of serious symptoms, like intense burning, pain, tingling, itching, and blisters. The shingles vaccine helps reduce the risk of shingles. Seniors should get the vaccine whether they’ve had chicken pox or not [9].
Tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough) vaccines: Tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis are serious diseases caused by bacteria that most individuals are vaccinated for as children. However, they may forget that booster vaccines are needed as adults. It is recommended that the booster for this group of vaccines, called “Tdap,” is needed every 10 years [9].

After receiving a vaccine, whether it’s the flu shot or one of the additional vaccines above, you may feel tired or achy. This is normal—drink plenty of water and rest. If symptoms remain and bother you, contact your doctor [11]. Your arm will feel sore after the injection, and you may notice some redness and inflammation [11]. This is also typical. To avoid soreness, move your arm frequently to keep the blood flowing.

In terms of what to avoid after getting a vaccination, there is a debate about this topic. Some healthcare professionals explain that it is fine to take pain relievers to reduce symptoms after a vaccine, but recommend waiting as long as possible before taking them [12]. Others advise against it completely [13]. Ask your doctor if you can take pain relievers or other medications to reduce your post-vaccine symptoms, and of course, pay attention to possible interactions with your other medications.

Creating Protective Daily Habits During Flu Season

Despite the flu shot being extremely effective, it does not guarantee 100% protection from catching the flu. This is why it’s important to maintain daily habits that help reduce the chance of contracting the flu, especially during flu season:

Wash your hands, and wash them well. Just washing your hands isn’t enough to help protect you from the flu and other illnesses. You must wash them properly to remove all germs and bacteria. To wash your hands correctly [13], start by wetting your hands. Turn off the faucet and lather your hands with antibacterial hand soap, scrubbing for at least 20 seconds. Get soap in all areas, including the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and even underneath your fingernails. Rinse your hands with water and dry them on a clean towel, or use an air dryer. If you don’t have access to a sink, use antibacterial hand sanitizer.
Practice respiratory etiquette. By behaving a certain way when you cough or sneeze, you can reduce the chances of catching the flu or another illness, as well as spreading it to others. When you cough or sneeze, use a clean tissue to cover your mouth and nose, then throw it away [14]. If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your elbow. Avoid coughing or sneezing into your hands, but if you do so by accident, wash your hands immediately after.
Disinfect high-touch surfaces in your home. You may be surprised by how many germs live on the surfaces of your home, even if you think you keep your house relatively clean. The kitchen, bathroom, and the surface of electronics are often the spots of the house with the most germs [15]. To reduce the chance of these germs entering your system and becoming the flu or another illness, regularly clean surfaces with soap and water. Then, disinfect them using a stronger bleach solution or another EPA-registered disinfecting product [16].
Socialize safely. Your social decisions impact your risk of contracting the flu and other illnesses. It is best to avoid close contact with others during flu season, especially if they are exhibiting signs of sickness [17]. Don’t share food or drinks with others. If you plan on socializing in a confined area, consider wearing a face mask. Finally, if you are feeling symptoms of the flu or another illness, isolate yourself until you have recovered in order to protect others.

Environmental Strategies for Reducing Exposure Risk

It may seem difficult to change your normal environments to reduce flu exposure risk, but there are a few simple steps you can take to protect yourself in most places. Cleaner air helps reduce your exposure to the flu [18]. To improve air quality in your home, let in fresh outside air by opening windows and using an air purifier. Before you have guests over to your home, ask them if they have had their flu shot and if they are exhibiting any symptoms of illness. You may think this is impolite, but most guests will understand that the risk of the flu is too high to risk it, especially if you are a senior or immunocompromised.

You have a bit less control in public spaces and transportation, but you can still protect yourself by wearing a face mask and/or plastic gloves in these areas. Carry hand sanitizer with you wherever you go, and wash your hands immediately once you are home. You can also disinfect items that are likely to get dirty while you are out, like your cell phone or bag.

Immune System Support Specifically for Seniors

A healthy and strong immune system is key for protecting against the flu, as well as recovering quickly from the flu without complications. Some habits seniors can incorporate into their daily routines to help strengthen the immune system include:

Improve your diet. Studies have shown that the Mediterranean diet can help boost immune resilience, potentially reducing your risk of flu and its complications [19]. The Mediterranean diet consists primarily of plant-based foods and healthy fats, like fruits, vegetables, beans, lentils, nuts, omega-3-rich fatty fish, and natural cheeses [20]. Of course, you should always consult with your doctor before switching diets, but incorporating some of these foods into your grocery list may boost your immune system!
Ensure you are hydrated. Not drinking enough water throughout the day can lead to dehydration, which has been shown to impair the immune system [21]. Carry a reusable water bottle with you and set reminders to hydrate regularly.
Get good quality sleep. When you sleep, your body releases cytokines, proteins that help manage the immune system and keep it strong [22]. To ensure you get enough sleep each night, create a calming, electronic-free bedtime routine and implement sleep aids, like earplugs, eye masks, and blackout shades, when necessary.
Manage stress effectively. We all get stressed from time to time, but prolonged exposure to significant stress can negatively impact the immune system and weaken it over time [23]. Incorporate stress-reduction techniques into your daily routine, such as meditation, mindfulness, therapy, yoga, or breathwork.

Early Detection: Recognizing Flu Symptoms in Older Adults

To know if you have the flu, you must understand the early signs and symptoms. Early flu symptoms include extreme fatigue, body aches, chills, cough, sore throat, fever, and stomach issues [24]. If you feel any of these symptoms, it should strike an alarm that you may have caught the flu, and you should get tested by a medical professional. However, you may feel confused by how many of these symptoms overlap with common signs of a cold, like sore throat, cough, and body aches [25]. Although these symptoms overlap, flu symptoms often feel more severe than cold symptoms [26]. You are also not likely to experience a runny or stuffy nose if you have the flu, but this is a common feature of a cold.

Some people may experience an unlikely presentation of the flu, especially seniors [27]. Typically, people get a fever when they have the flu. However, seniors often do not experience a fever, which makes it harder for them to tell that something is wrong and that they should see a doctor [28]. This is why monitoring for other symptoms is so important.

Seniors should see a doctor for the flu as soon as possible, or should call for emergency help if they are experiencing symptoms such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, dizziness that does not stop, or seizures [29].

Emergency Action Plan: When to Seek Immediate Care

Know the Warning Signs: Seek emergency care if you or your loved one experiences any of the following:
- Chest pain, shortness of breath, or difficulty breathing
- Sudden confusion or difficulty speaking
- Signs of stroke or heart attack
- High or low blood pressure with concerning symptoms
- Severe pain, dizziness, or fainting
Don’t Go Alone: If safe and feasible, have a caregiver, family member, or friend accompany you to the urgent care or emergency room.
Be Prepared to Communicate the Following:
- Current symptoms and when they started
- Pre-existing medical conditions
- All medications being taken (including supplements)
- Any known allergies or recent changes in health
Create a Transportation Plan in Advance: Identify who will drive you or call for emergency transport and share this plan with your caregiver or family. Remember to keep emergency contact numbers and your medication list easily accessible.
Keep Documents Ready: Store a printed list of medications, allergies, and medical history in a wallet or near the door and include copies for caregivers or family members.

Special Considerations for Seniors with Chronic Conditions

If you have a medical condition and contract the flu, there are some special considerations you should take to maintain your health. Individuals with diabetes, whether type 1, type 2, or gestational, are unfortunately more likely to experience flu complications [30]. The flu may also affect blood sugar levels because you are not able to eat or drink as much [31]. Ask your doctor about the best plan, but they may recommend that you monitor your blood sugar levels more closely.

The flu can also affect blood pressure, heart rate, and overall heart function, putting those with heart conditions at increased risk for serious complications [32]. Similarly, flu symptoms can exacerbate lung disease and make breathing more difficult, raising the risk of complications among individuals with lung conditions [33]. It is recommended that people with heart or lung conditions stock up on their regular medications before flu season, in case they are unable to obtain them while sick [34]. They should also be extra aware of any changes to breathing and alert them to their doctor or an emergency medical professional [34].

Individuals with chronic kidney disease also have a higher risk of severe flu complications, as the disease weakens the immune system and makes it more challenging to fight off the flu [35]. They should also create a medication plan ahead of flu season and contact their doctor immediately if they experience complications.

Finally, the flu can exacerbate autoimmune conditions because the immune system has to work harder to manage symptoms [36]. Individuals with autoimmune conditions should prepare early for flu season and create a plan with their doctor to boost their immune system as much as possible before this time. Make sure you are eating a nutrient-rich-dense diet, exercising regularly, and taking necessary vitamins—all with your doctor’s insight, of course [36].

Community Resources for Enhanced Flu Protection

When it comes to flu prevention, you are never in it alone. Many seniors are working through the same prevention strategies, which is why there are services and programs out there to support you. Check if your local senior center has a flu prevention program—some senior centers may offer free flu shots, masks, and/or other resources. Many pharmacies also offer convenient access to free flu shots—including flu shots specifically for seniors—as well as expert pharmacist insight on the flu vaccine.

If you are unable to travel to a senior center or pharmacy that offers flu vaccinations, there may be the option to utilize home health services. Depending on your location, there may be a program that administers at-home flu shots to seniors who are unable to leave their homes [37].

Finally, online and telephone resources are available to help support you during flu season. Never hesitate to call your doctor or schedule a telehealth appointment to talk about flu prevention and vaccine options.

Creating Your Personalized Flu Defense Strategy

The flu can be dangerous and cause serious health complications among seniors. Luckily, though, there is a wealth of information, resources, and support out there for helping prevent the flu among this high-risk group. Take advantage of these available resources and prioritize creating a prevention plan ahead of flu season. You can even make a weekly flu prevention checklist to help keep you on track. Stay diligent, and stay safe!

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