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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 2009

PRESS RELEASE

CONTACT:  Glen Galka, 646-214-2086, ggalka@seniorhelpers.com

Seniors Urged to Take Precaution as Flu Season Approaches

Leading In-home care provider urges family caregivers to be pro-active in keeping seniors safe

(New York, NY) – October, 2009 – Senior Helpers advises family caregivers to prepare for the flu season with increased urgency in order to decrease hospitalizations and deaths in the elderly population.  In the past, traditional flu seasons have posed a threat to the senior population and the risk is only increased with the possible exposure to novel influenza A (H1N1).

The CDC reports an average of 200,000 people are hospitalized and 36,000 die from the flu each year in the United States.  Seniors over 65 years of age constitute approximately 90% of those deaths and more than half of the hospitalizations.  The increased prevalence of flu complications in the elderly population is largely due to weakened immune systems.  Based on the increased risk, seniors and their caretakers should take precautionary steps to ensure all measures are taken for a safe flu season. 

John and Dennis, pharmacists from Ansonia Chemist Pharmacy in Park Slope, echo the sentiments of many health care officials when it comes to preventing flu in the elderly.  However should flu systems develop, John and Dennis share, “One should get plenty of rest and fluids.  A call to the doctor is also important, especially if secondary conditions exist such as diabetes, asthma, or cardiovascular disorders.  A flu medication may be prescribed if the health care practitioner feels one is warranted. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist before purchasing an over-the-counter flu or cold medication as to prevent drug and disease interactions.”

As an in-home care provider with the priority of keeping seniors safe and healthy at home, Senior Helpers is taking action by delivering Prevention Packages to each of the seniors for whom they provide care.  Each package will include items for sanitation to decrease the spread of germs, as well as tips on how to best ensure the prevention of the flu.  Senior Helpers recommends all families with an elderly loved one take similar actions as outlined below.

1.       Ask the primary care doctor about the traditional flu vaccine and the availability of the vaccination for novel Influenza A.  Be sure to also ask the doctor about taking flu antiviral drugs.

2.       Stop the spread of germs.  Put together your own Prevention Package with tissues, sanitizers and soap.  Try not to touch your eyes, nose or mouth without first washing your hands for 10 to 15 seconds.

3.       Practice healthy habits.  Maintain a healthy diet and clean environment.  Be aware of flu-like symptoms and contact a doctor should they arise.

In the event that a senior is having difficulty managing household tasks, planning for a healthy diet, and/or is unable to identify flu symptoms, a home care agency such as Senior Helpers should be contacted for assistance.  

About Senior Helpers:

Senior Helpers connects professional caregivers with seniors to provide care in the home. While the company has over 260 offices nationwide, Glen Galka and team are proud to serve the New York City area and offer a wide range of companion care services to assist seniors living independently in all five boroughs. For more information, please visit: http://www.seniorhelpers.com/

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