With increasing age our immunity power declines, which results in making older adults more vulnerable to infections such as URTI (Upper Respiratory Tract Infections), which includes cough, cold, and sore throat. Such types of diseases in the senior age group are typically considered normal, but they can be life-threatening. So, it is essential to understand URTI and its preventive measures for maintaining a healthy and comfortable life among the seniors in our families. At our old age home in Pune, seniors are provided a safe and hygienic environment with care available 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, to improve their health, happiness and wellbeing by managing their infections.
What is URTI?
URTI is a short term for upper respiratory tract infection. It is a common infection that affects the nose, throat, and sinuses. It spreads through tiny droplets released when a person sneezes or coughs. The common symptoms include:
- Cough
- Runny or blocked nose
- Sneezing
- Sore throat
- Low-grade fever
- Body soreness
The URTIs in younger people would remain for a short period but for older people they are longer and would eventually lead to complications like pneumonia.
Why Are Seniors at More Risk?
The most common causes of high incidences of URTI among elderly:
Weak immune system- The body, as it ages, fails to defend itself against infections as it used to in younger age.
Presence of other diseases- Many older adults have diabetes, cardiac or respiratory diseases, which make them likely to catch other infections.
Less movement- Being indoors for too long or not exercising adequately leads to weakening immunity.
Effect of cold temperature- During winter, there is an increase in the number of older people catching cold because of the temperature changes.
How to Prevent URTI in the Old Age
Though URTI is a common infection, proper care and attention ensure that older adults remain healthy and do not meet with severe complications due to this illness. Our Old age home provides necessary nutrition, safe health care, and a stress-free lifestyle as well. All of this help the seniors remain healthy and happy.
It’s always better to prevent than treat it. These simple but effective measures can keep seniors safe from infections:
Good Hygiene: Keep washing hands often and cover your mouth while coughing or sneezing to prevent spreading germs.
Healthy Food: Fresh fruits, vegetables, and soup will help strengthen the immune system.
Staying warm- One way to keep the elderly warm, especially in winter, is to keep the house warm to reduce the chances of catching colds.
Hydration: Drinking enough fluids like water, herbal tea and warm milk, can keep the throat moist.
Vaccination: flu and pneumonia vaccination can protect from catching serious infections.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes frequent cold and cough in elderly people?
As we age, our immune system weakens. Seniors are more likely to get cold and cough due to low immunity, pre-existing health conditions, and sudden weather changes.
Is URTI dangerous for old people?
Yes, URTI (Upper Respiratory Tract Infection) can be serious in older adults. If not treated properly, it can lead to complications like pneumonia.
How can we prevent URTI in old age?
By maintaining hygiene, eating healthy, staying warm, drinking enough fluids, and getting flu or pneumonia vaccinations, URTI can be prevented.
Can old age homes help in managing such infections?
Definitely. Trusted old age homes like Sanctus Healthcare provide 24/7 medical care, nutritious meals, and a hygienic environment to help manage and prevent such infections.
Best care for Seniors in Sanctus Healthcare
Elderly family members need good keeping, especially when they have a tendency to constantly fall ill. The best old age home in Pune provides high-quality medical service, nutritious meals, and good habitation conditions to keep the elderly healthy. Our trained caregivers ensure that every resident receives personalized attention with proper medical management.
For those looking for a more comfortable and premium experience, our old age home offers top-class facilities, peaceful surroundings, and round-the-clock healthcare services . Here, seniors can enjoy a stress-free life while receiving the best possible care.
Book a Visit or Talk to Our Care Team Today
Location: Pune
Email: hello@sanctushealthcare.com
Call Now: +91-8380087093