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Infections in Seniors: Prevention Tips That Work

As people age, their body’s antibody-producing capacity goes down sharply. This leads to a weak immune system, making them prone to injuries, infections and inflammation. In most cases, following simple hygienic measures can help prevent infections in seniors. Read on to learn about the ways to reduce risk of infections in older adults.

Ways to Reduce Risk of Infections in Seniors

Listed below are some ways to control infections in seniors:

• Maintain personal hygiene

Frequently handwashing with soap and water or using alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Avoid touching face with unwashed hands, and maintain good oral hygiene to prevent dental and respiratory infections.

• Prevent skin infections

Keep skin clean and moisturized to prevent cracks. Monitor for pressure sores or wounds, especially in bedbound seniors. Promptly treat cuts, scrapes, or rashes.

• Proper Nutrition

Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, protein, and whole grains to support immune function. Ensure adequate intake of vitamin D and zinc as their deficiency can increase infection risk.

• Vaccinations

Stay up to date with recommended vaccines as advised by the doctor.

• Limit exposure to sick individuals

Avoid close contact with people who are ill as it can increase risk of infection in senior citizens. Wear masks in crowded places during flu season or outbreaks.

• Completing the dose of antibiotics

One of the most common mistakes that seniors commit is stopping the consumption of antibiotics as soon as their health improves. According to medical experts, people, especially older adults, should complete their antibiotic dose even if they start to feel better after the first or second dose. This will prevent the recurrence of infections.

• Manage chronic conditions

Managing health issues like diabetes, heart disease, or lung conditions reduces infection risk and complication.

• Stay active and rested

Exercise regularly as it boosts immunity. Ensure to get adequate sleep of 7-8 hours/ night as it enhances resistance to infections.

Causes of infections in seniors

This includes:

• Influenza –

Seniors are more prone to flu infections (coughing, sneezing, etc.). If not treated on time, this can lead to pneumonia and hospitalisation. This virus is highly contagious, and hence most seniors are affected by it.

• Bacterial pneumonia –

Since the immune system of older adults is weakened, they are prone to lung infections and inflammation, which can lead to bacterial pneumonia. The condition may be serious if seniors already have certain health complications.

• Skin infections –

Skin thinning, a weakened immune system, improper nutrient absorption, and other factors can lead to various skin infections in seniors. Most skin infections are one of four types: methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), drug-resistant infections, viral illnesses, or foot infections.

• Urinary tract infections –

Seniors with pre-existing medical conditions are prone to urinary tract infections, which can lead to inflammation in the bladder, kidneys, urethra, and other areas. These complications can include diabetes, kidney stones, obesity, incontinence, catheter use, etc.

• Gastrointestinal infections –

Bacterial or viral infections caused by contaminated food and water can lead to frequent infections in the gastrointestinal tract of seniors. In this case, seniors mostly show symptoms of nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal discomfort.

Conclusion

Usually, older adults do not exhibit any early signs of infection. They may start showing signs of discomfort only after the infection has already worsened. Hence, it is always a better idea to take precautionary measures to prevent the spread of infections.

It is important to buy health insurance to cover medical costs if you contract an infection or develop a disease.

One of the important components of our overall wellness is also being financially secured. Healthcare emergencies can happen any time, but a good health insurance policy can protect you from such uncertain situations. To know more about Wellness and other health related tips, visit the wellness corner.

Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and discussions about health and related subjects. The information and other content provided in this blog, website or any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered or used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Kindly contact your doctor before starting a new medicine or health regime.

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Published on June 18, 2025