How do you Treat the Flu in the Elderly?

When it comes to old people and the flu, it can often lead to a hospital stay and can prove to be fatal. However, there are ways to counteract the relationship between influenza and the elderly. In this post, we’ll review:

• Complications of influenza in older adults
• Flu symptoms in seniors
• Preventing influenza in elderly
• Treating elderly with flu

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Are There More Risks for Seniors With the Flu?

Adults aged 65 and older face a higher risk of severe flu complications compared to younger, healthier adults, partly due to age-related changes in immune function.

Although flu season severity varies, older adults consistently experience the most severe effects. In recent years, they have accounted for an estimated 70% to 85% of flu-related deaths and 50% to 70% of flu-related hospitalizations.

What Are the Complications of Flu in Elderly?

When it comes to elderly and the flu, there are a few complications to look at. Some conditions that can worsen or get exacerbated by the flu include:

• Asthma
• Diabetes
• Encephalitis
• Heart diseases
• Pneumonia
• Sepsis
• Multi-organ failure (E.g. Kidney failure or respiratory failure)
• Myocarditis
• Myositis or rhabdomyolysis
• Sinus or ear infections

Next, let’s take a look at flu symptoms in the elderly.

What Are Flu Symptoms in Elderly?

For old people, flu symptoms are pretty much the same as in other age groups. Symptoms of flu in the elderly include:

• Aches and pains
• Cough
• Fatigue
• Fever
• Headache
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Sore throat

Now that we know more about influenza symptoms in elderly, let’s take a look at ways to prevent flu in seniors.

How Do You Prevent Elderly Flu?

When thinking about flu and the elderly, it’s best way to get an annual vaccine, which significantly reduces hospitalization and death rates among older adults. A high-dose flu shot, recommended for those 65 and older, contains four times the active ingredients of a standard vaccine for a stronger immune response. Since flu viruses change yearly, a new shot each fall is essential. Additionally, to help prevent pneumonia, the CDC advises healthy adults over 65 to get both recommended vaccines, with timing depending on prior vaccinations. 

Furthermore, you can also prevent the flu by washing your hands; covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing; avoiding touching your eyes, nose, or mouth; staying home when you’re sick; avoiding contact with sick people; and cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces.

Now that we know more about the relationship between elderly and flu, let’s take a look at how to treat influenza in the elderly.

How Do You Treat the Flu in the Elderly?

To treat flu in old age, contact your doctor if you get symptoms. They will check for complications and tailor treatment based on your needs, which may include an antibiotic. Other ways to treat flu in older adults include:

• Resting
• Drinking plenty of liquids.
• Asking the doctor or pharmacist before you take a new over-the-counter cold or flu medicine. They can ensure it won’t complicate your medical conditions or interfere with other prescription drugs.

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