There are several reasons why an elderly person could be at a higher risk of contracting an illness. As a person ages, their body often can’t function as well as it did when they were younger. Some of the reasons why this happens include medical issues or the aging process. Sometimes, there is an unknown reason. Keep reading to find out some specific reasons why elderly people often contract an illness faster than a younger person. Knowing this information might help you and their home care services providers to give your elderly loved one better care.

Immunity Has Decreased

There are studies that indicate T cells and macrophages are used in the body to fight against infection. As a person ages, their body slows the production of these types of cells. This can cause the immune system to not function as well as it used to. Due to this happening, the person may be at a higher risk of contracting an illness. As family caregivers, it is important to speak with your elderly loved one’s doctor to find out how you can help increase their immunity and keep them safe. This is information that home health care providers might know, as well.

Malnourishment Often Occurs

Many studies have shown that about 10% or more of all elderly people are undernourished. This often leads to the body not functioning correctly. It is important to understand that the body needs iron, protein, and vitamin B12 to keep the immune system functioning well. As a family caregiver, you might want to talk to your elderly loved one about their nutrition needs. You can make a shopping list, take them to the store, and help them prepare nutritious meals. This can help ensure your elderly loved one doesn’t become malnourished. If you don’t have the extra time for this, you can hire home care services providers for these tasks.

Medication Side Effects

Some medications can harm the immune system. If this happens, it can put a person at higher risk of becoming ill. Chemotherapy medications are an example of this. If your elderly loved one is on medication that they need, you can help by encouraging them to stay positive. You should also encourage them to attend every doctor’s appointment for proper health management.

Help from You and Home Care Services

There are many reasons why your elderly loved one could have a higher risk of contracting an illness. As a family caregiver, you can help your elderly loved one reduce their risk of contracting illnesses in the above-mentioned ways. If you need more help doing this, you can talk to your elderly loved one’s doctors and home care services providers for advice.

Sources:  https://www.cdc.gov/chronicdisease/about/prevent/index.htm

If you or a family member are in need of hiring Home Care Services in Margate FL, call the caring professionals at Star Multi Care today at (954) 870-4770. Providing service in Boca Raton, Boynton Beach, Coconut Creek, Deerfield Beach, Delray Beach, Ft. Lauderdale, Lauderhill, Margate, Pompano Beach and Tamarac.

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Stephen Sternbach

CEO at Star Multi Care Services

With over 35 years of experience, Stephen Sternbach has been the Chairman of the Board of Directors, President, and Chief Executive Officer of Star Multi Care Services since 1987. After the sale of the New York and New Jersey operations of Star Multi Care Services, Sternbach brought the company private where he remains President and CEO of this 40-million dollar company. With Sternbach at the helm, Star Multi Care Services employs more than 650 employees, in six offices throughout Florida, Pennsylvania, Ohio and New York.

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