By Shelly Harris RN
As the winter months settle over Emery Village, the sounds of coughs, sneezes, and sniffles seem to grow louder. For our seniors, this season brings added health concerns, and it’s important to stay informed and prepared to navigate the risks of colds, flu, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and pneumonia. These illnesses can range from inconvenient to severe, making prevention and early care essential.
Coughs and colds are often the first signs that your body is fighting off an infection. While they’re usually mild, they can linger and be uncomfortable. The flu, however, is much more than a bad cold. It’s a serious illness that can hit seniors harder and lead to complications such as pneumonia, an infection that inflames the air sacs in the lungs.
Another concern is RSV, a virus that might sound unfamiliar to some but is becoming better understood in senior care. RSV often causes symptoms similar to a common cold, but in older adults, it can lead to severe lung infections like pneumonia or bronchiolitis. Pneumonia itself is a major risk during the winter months and one of the leading reasons for hospital visits among seniors. Protecting against it is critical.
Thankfully, there are effective ways to guard against these illnesses. Vaccinations remain a powerful tool. The annual flu shot continues to be one of the best defences against the flu, and enhanced flu vaccines designed for older adults are now available, offering stronger protection. New this year is the RSV vaccine, recommended for adults 60 and older. It’s worth asking your doctor about it. And don’t forget the pneumonia vaccine—keeping it up to date could make all the difference in staying healthy this season.
Even as COVID-19 fades from the spotlight, it hasn’t disappeared. Booster shots tailored to new variants are still recommended, especially for seniors and those with health conditions. Combined with other vaccines, they add an extra layer of protection during the colder months.
Good health, however, isn’t just about vaccines. Hygiene plays a key role in staying well. Washing your hands regularly with soap and water, using hand sanitizer when necessary, and cleaning high-touch surfaces can all help prevent the spread of germs. If you’re feeling unwell, make sure to cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow when you cough or sneeze.
Staying warm is another simple but important step. Keep your home heated to at least 18 to 21 degrees Celsius and wear layers to stay comfortable. Cold weather doesn’t cause illness directly, but staying warm helps your body stay strong against infections.
A healthy diet is also key. Fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can give your immune system a boost. Staying hydrated is equally important, even when the weather is cold—try to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day unless your doctor advises otherwise.
For those who enjoy being active in the community, it’s smart to limit time in crowded spaces during the height of cold and flu season. Viruses spread quickly in enclosed areas, so avoiding peak times can reduce your risk. Regular visits to your healthcare provider are also important, as early check-ups can catch potential issues before they become serious.
Emery Village is fortunate to have local health resources that help keep our community safe and informed. Vaccine clinics and wellness services are great ways to stay on top of your health. Staying proactive about prevention is one of the best ways to enjoy this season with confidence.
By taking care of yourself and staying informed, you can avoid many of the challenges winter brings. Let’s work together to protect our seniors and ensure that everyone in Emery Village has a healthy, happy winter.