The end of September brings with it the first signs of autumn. That means the start of cold and flu season is fast approaching. So how can seniors and older adults give their immune systems a boost to better protect themselves this season?
At Harbor’s Edge, we make sure our residents are set up for success all year round. During flu season, we encourage seniors to take full advantage of the health and wellness resources we offer, including fitness centers, on-site doctors and nurses, and nearby hospitals that we work closely with. We aim to support the wellness of all our residents, and that includes making sure they have all the tools they need to stay healthy through flu season.
The most important factor when it comes to naturally boosting immunity is sleep. People who don’t get enough good quality sleep are more likely to get sick after being exposed to a virus, and are likely to take longer to recover if their poor sleeping patterns continue. While you sleep, your immune system makes proteins that help to fight off infections. When you’re sick or under stress, your body needs more antibodies and proteins than normal to keep you healthy.
Lack of sleep can decrease the production of these proteins, leaving you defenseless against infections and viruses. Levels of antibodies are also lower during times when you don’t get enough sleep. Good quality sleep will help you stay healthier and fight off colds faster if you come down with something.
While sleep is the most critical aspect of immunity, stress is also important. High stress can mirror the effects of sleep loss, and each can contribute to the other. Stress harms all aspects of health, raising your risk of heart, digestive, and cognitive problems. At Harbor’s Edge, we strive to ease your stress so you can live your best life and be healthier and happier.
Another important aspect of immunity is exercise. Moderate cardiovascular activity can increase the activity of your body’s virus-killing cells like antibodies and white blood cells. Sticking to a moderate exercise schedule can help keep you healthy – in more ways than one. Our fitness centers are fully equipped with both machines and personal trainers to help you create and maintain a fitness routine that works for you.
Diet is another lifestyle choice that can give you an immunity boost. Our on campus dining venues provide well-balanced meals that feature locally grown ingredients throughout the year. Our chef and his staff ensure the meals they serve are nutrient and vitamin-rich, all while tasting delicious. Consuming minimally processed foods can help improve gut health, reducing inflammation and positively impacting overall health.
Finally, it’s important to stay current on all your vaccines. Our staff ensures you get the vaccinations you need, when you need them. Skipping the flu shot puts older adults at risk of the virus and severe symptoms.
Much of staying healthy as you age is preventative. Keeping your immune system strong helps prevent you from getting sick and helps you fight off any infections that do make their way into your system faster and with less stress. Harbor’s Edge is here to support you and your immune health, so you can focus on living the life you want.