Tips – Pneumonia Prevention
How can pneumonia be prevented in older adults?
You can help your elderly parents prevent contracting pneumonia by encouraging them to follow these steps:
— Get the pneumococcal vaccine. Talk to the doctor about what type of pneumococcal vaccine is right for your aging parent.
— Get the flu shot. Every year. Pneumonia can be a secondary infection after an initial bout of influenza. People who get the flu shot have a lower risk of developing pneumonia as a complication of the flu.
— Stay up to date on the COVID-19 vaccination. Coronavirus and pneumonia can be a deadly combination of infections. In addition to any of the three options for the initial vaccination shots, receiving your COVID-19 booster shot is a great way to further prevent the risk of a double infection.
— Wash hands thoroughly and often. Washing your hands before and after preparing food, before eating, and after using the restroom can help reduce the risks of illness.
— Practice good health habits. Stay physically active, and eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
— Manage chronic conditions. Underlying health conditions like asthma, COPD, and diabetes can worsen pneumonia.
— Don’t smoke. If you know someone who is a smoker, talk to them and their doctor about learning ways to quit smoking.

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John D. Miller is the founder/owner of Home Care Partners, LLC, a Massachusetts business providing private duty, personalized in-home assistance and companion care services to those needing help in daily activities and household functions.
Phone: (781) 378-2164
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://homecarepartnersma.com