As the weather cools and everyone starts spending more time indoors, flu season makes its annual return. While influenza is common, it can be more serious for older adults, especially those with underlying health conditions. The good news? With a little preparation and support, you can protect yourself and those around you.
At River Ridge, your health and comfort are always top priorities. As a trusted senior community in Medicine Hat, AB, we take a proactive approach to wellness, making flu prevention simple, accessible, and reassuring. From vaccination support to everyday wellness habits, we’re here to help you stay healthy all season long.
Understanding the Flu
Influenza (the flu) is a contagious respiratory virus that affects the nose, throat, and lungs. Symptoms can include fever, chills, sore throat, fatigue, and muscle aches. While most people recover within a week or two, older adults are at higher risk of complications like pneumonia or dehydration, making prevention especially important.
How to tell the difference between a cold and the flu:
- Colds usually develop slowly and cause milder symptoms like a stuffy nose, sneezing, or sore throat.
- The flu tends to appear suddenly, often with fever, chills, body aches, and more severe fatigue.
If you’re unsure what you’re experiencing, it’s always best to check with a healthcare provider, especially if symptoms appear quickly or worsen.
At River Ridge, we work closely with healthcare professionals to promote awareness, answer questions, and make preventive care simple for every resident.
The Importance of Getting Vaccinated
One of the most effective ways to protect yourself and your community from the flu is through vaccination. The flu shot helps your immune system recognize and fight the virus, greatly reducing the risk of infection and serious illness.
For older adults, vaccination is especially important because:
- It lowers the risk of hospitalization or complications.
- It helps protect others by reducing the spread of the virus.
- It’s reformulated each year to target the most common strains.
Some residents also choose to get pneumonia or COVID-19 booster vaccines around the same time, since they protect against other respiratory illnesses that can circulate during fall and winter. If you’re unsure what’s right for you, your doctor or nurse can help you decide which vaccines to receive and when.
It’s also worth noting that the flu shot cannot cause the flu. The vaccine contains inactive components of the virus that simply teach your immune system how to respond. Some people may feel mild soreness or fatigue afterward, which is a sign that the body is building protection.
At River Ridge, we make vaccination easy and stress-free. We’re happy to coordinate appointments, so residents don’t need to worry about scheduling. Our team is always available to provide information, reminders, and reassurance along the way as well.
Everyday Prevention Tips
Getting vaccinated is an important first step, but daily habits also play a big role in preventing illness and keeping your immune system strong.
Here are a few simple ways to stay healthy during flu season:
- Wash your hands often. Use soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially before eating or after being in shared spaces.
- Avoid touching your face. Germs can enter through the eyes, nose, or mouth, so try to keep your hands away when possible.
- Eat well and stay hydrated. Balanced meals and plenty of fluids help your body fight off viruses more effectively.
- Get enough rest and gentle exercise. A good night’s sleep and regular movement, such as walking or stretching, help strengthen your immune system.
- Cover coughs and sneezes. Use a tissue or your elbow, then wash your hands right away.
- Stay home and rest when you’re feeling unwell. Taking time to recover helps protect others.
At River Ridge, we make it easy to maintain these healthy habits. From regular housekeeping and sanitation to balanced meals and wellness activities, our community supports residents in every aspect of daily health.
Supporting Each Other During Flu Season
Flu prevention is all about caring for one another. In a close-knit community like River Ridge, residents, staff, and families all play a part in keeping everyone well.
Our dedicated team members follow strong infection-prevention practices, monitor resident wellness closely, and ensure that anyone feeling unwell receives timely care and attention. We also encourage open communication. If you’re not feeling your best, you can always reach out for help or advice.
Living in a supportive environment means you don’t have to face flu season alone. Whether you need assistance scheduling a vaccination, extra rest, or a warm cup of tea on a quiet day, you’ll always find caring hands nearby.
Staying Healthy Together
Flu season is a normal part of every year, but with preparation, vaccination, and community care, it doesn’t have to be stressful. At River Ridge, you can count on a safe, attentive, and compassionate environment where wellness comes first.
Our team is here to help you stay healthy, active, and confident, so you can focus on enjoying the moments that matter most.
Ready to learn more about how our senior community in Medicine Hat, AB, supports well-being during flu season? Book a tour today and discover how we provide the peace of mind and care that help you feel your best.