Understanding the risks and taking proactive steps can make a big difference in health and safety. With respiratory illnesses like seasonal influenza and “walking pneumonia” becoming more common during this time of year, staying prepared is important to avoid risks.

Cold and flu season can be particularly challenging for seniors and caregivers. Seniors face higher risks of flu-related complications, with up to 85% of flu-related deaths and 50-70% of hospitalizations occurring in people over 65. Caregivers should monitor older adults closely for severe symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, persistent dizziness, or worsening coughs.

Key Steps to Stay Healthy and Safe

Get Vaccinated:

• The flu vaccine is highly effective in preventing serious illness
• Seniors over 65 should consider vaccines like the Fluzone High-Dose or Fluad Quadrivalent, which are designed for stronger immune responses
• The CDC recommends getting vaccinated in September or October for optimal protection

Practice Basic Hygiene:

• Wash hands frequently with soap and water
• Avoid touching your face, and clean high-touch surfaces regularly
• Wear a mask if you or someone near you is unwell

Recognize Symptoms:

• Flu symptoms include fatigue, fever, cough, muscle soreness, and sore throat. In children, vomiting and diarrhea may occur
• Seek medical attention if symptoms worsen, especially for those with chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, or weakened immune systems

Understand Flu Transmission:

• Flu spreads through droplets from coughing, sneezing, or talking and can be contagious 1 day before symptoms appear and up to 7 days after

Consider Antivirals:

• Antiviral medications like Tamiflu® can shorten the duration of the flu if taken within two days of symptom onset

If Caring for Someone with the Flu

• Use proper personal protective equipment (PPE) and avoid face-to-face contact
• Wash hands often and wear gloves when handling tissues or soiled items
• Encourage hydration and rest, and ensure the individual avoids close contact with others

Recent research has highlighted a strong link between the consumption of ultraprocessed foods, like processed meats, sodas, flavoured yogurts, instant noodles, and an increased risk of dementia. Studies suggest that these foods may negatively impact brain health by affecting blood vessels, displacing healthier nutrients, and even damaging brain cells.

For example, according to the NY Times article written by Dana G. Smith and Alice Callahan, a U.S. study tracking over 130,000 U.S. adults over 43 years, during which time 11,173 participants developed dementia. Those who ate roughly two servings of processed red meat per week faced a 14% higher risk of developing dementia compared to those who consumed fewer than three servings per month. Similar findings support this connection, the study conducted in Brazil with more than 10,000 middle-aged adults, it was observed that individuals who consumed 20% or more of their daily calories from ultraprocessed foods showed a more rapid decline in cognitive abilities over an eight-year period. Another research involving over 72,000 older adults in the UK over a decade found that a diet with a 10% higher intake of ultraprocessed foods was linked to a 25% greater risk of developing dementia. Similarly, a study of 30,000 Americans over an 11-year span found that a 10% increase in ultraprocessed food consumption was associated with a 16% higher risk of cognitive decline and an 8% higher risk of stroke.

While you cannot conclude that by consuming ultraprocessed food, you’ll definitely get dementia, the evidence is clear enough to encourage a shift toward healthier eating habits.

For caregivers, when caring for others, adopting and modeling healthy eating can improve your cognitive abilities leading to a healthy brain, this can be a powerful way to inspire the people under your care. Simple changes, like replacing sugary drinks with water or opting for whole, unprocessed foods, can make a significant difference over time. Remember, even small steps toward a healthier diet can contribute to better brain health and overall well-being for both you and your clients.

Start by making gradual adjustments, focusing on incorporating more fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins into your meals. These changes not only benefit cognitive function but also set a positive example for those in your care.