Our bodies become more susceptible to respiratory infections as we age. And let’s be honest; nobody wants to deal with a pesky cough or a runny nose. But what exactly are respiratory infections, and how do they affect older adults?

According to the National Library of Medicine, respiratory infections affect the respiratory system, including the lungs and airways. Often caused by viruses or bacteria, respiratory infections can range from mild to severe.

The most common respiratory infections are the common cold, flu, pneumonia, and bronchitis. While everyone is susceptible to these infections, older adults have an increased risk of developing complications.

One of the main reasons older adults are more susceptible to respiratory infections is because their immune system weakens with age. A weakening immune system makes fighting off infections harder for the body. Additionally, many older adults may be more vulnerable to infections due to underlying health conditions.

If you’re an older adult, taking precautions is essential to avoid respiratory infections. Here are a few tips to consider:

• Wash your hands frequently: Ensuring that you are keeping your hands clean by frequently washing with warm soap and water is one of the easiest things you can do to protect yourself and others from spreading germs. Always wash your hands often, especially before eating or touching your face.
• Avoid close contact with sick people: Respiratory infections are highly contagious, so it’s best to avoid close contact with people who are sick. If you must be around someone who is ill, make sure to wear a mask and practice good hygiene.
• Keep your surroundings clean: Reduce your risk of getting sick by disinfecting frequently touched surfaces like doorknobs and light switches.
• Get vaccinated: One of the best ways to protect yourself from respiratory infections is by staying current on your vaccines. Make sure to get your flu shot every year and talk to your doctor about other vaccines that may be recommended for you.

While taking these precautions can help reduce your risk of getting respiratory infections, it’s still possible to get sick from time to time. If you do develop a respiratory infection, here are some things to keep in mind:

• Pay attention to your symptoms: If you start experiencing symptoms such as coughing, fever, or shortness of breath, pay attention to how you’re feeling. If your symptoms are severe or worsening, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately.
• Drink plenty of fluids: Staying hydrated is essential when you’re sick. Ensure you drink plenty of fluids, such as water, tea, or soup.
• Rest: Your body needs time to recover when you’re sick, so rest as much as possible. Avoid overexerting yourself and take it easy until you feel better.
• Follow your doctor’s advice: If you see a doctor for your respiratory infection, the doctor may give you instructions on how to get well as quickly as possible. These instructions may include taking medication, getting plenty of rest, or staying home from work or school until you feel better.

While respiratory infections can be a hassle, they don’t have to ruin your day. By taking precautions to prevent getting sick and taking care of yourself if you do get sick, you can stay healthy and happy as you age.