5 biggest senior health risks for fall and winter — and how to stay safe, according to an expert: What to know about vaccines, falls & more

This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Contact a qualified medical professional before engaging in any physical activity, or making any changes to your diet, medication or lifestyle.

As fall and winter approach, seniors face more health risks — ranging from respiratory infections to slips and falls — not to mention isolation and depression. That’s why it's imperative to take proactive steps to stay healthy and safe during the colder months.

To help, we asked Dr. Fahad Razak, an internal medicine physician at St. Michael’s Hospital in Toronto, to dive into some of the biggest health questions Canadian seniors have as the temperatures dip.

The expert also listed essential precautions seniors should take. Here's what you need to know.

Should seniors get an updated COVID-19 vaccine? What other shots should they get?

Seniors should prioritize getting updated vaccines this winter, particularly for COVID-19. “The virus continues to mutate, and the version circulating in Canada this winter is very different from last year’s," Razak explains.

This season’s COVID-19 vaccine will target a new variant, meaning it will benefit those who received last year’s shot too.

The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) strongly recommends the vaccine for adults over 65 and other high-risk groups, such as those with suppressed immune systems or living in long-term care settings.

Other recommended vaccines for seniors include:

• Influenza vaccine: A new flu vaccine is released annually to match the strains expected to circulate. “Even if you got vaccinated last year, you need a version that matches what’s circulating this year,” Razak says.

• RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) vaccine: RSV can lead to severe respiratory illness in older adults, and for the first time, there’s now a vaccine available in Canada. “Check the level of coverage within your jurisdiction,” advises Razak, as availability varies by province.

• Pneumonia vaccine: Seniors should ensure their pneumococcal vaccine is up to date, even though it doesn’t require annual updates.

• Shingles vaccine: Older adults should consider this vaccine as well, as shingles can be dangerous for seniors.

How can seniors protect themselves from the flu?

Flu season poses a serious threat to seniors, who are at higher risk of severe illness. That's why it's important for seniors to get a flu vaccine as early as possible.

“The best thing to do is to get vaccinated when the flu vaccine is announced later in the fall," Razak says.

The annual flu shot is updated each year to match the most common strains and provides protection throughout the winter. Getting the shot can reduce the risk of severe illness, hospitalization or complications like pneumonia.

In addition to vaccination, seniors should practice good hygiene, like frequent hand washing, using hand sanitizer and avoiding close contact with sick individuals.

Razak also advises wearing face masks in high-risk settings or around infected individuals, as well as maintaining overall health by getting enough sleep, eating well and staying active.

How can seniors prevent slips and falls as temperatures drop?

Slips and falls are a huge concern for seniors, especially during icy winter months. “Often, they’re at the start of a downward spiral in people’s health,” Razak warns.

Preventing falls — both indoors and outdoors — are crucial.

Indoors, ensure rooms are well-lit, remove tripping hazards like loose rugs and install handrails on stairs, the doctor advises. Using grab bars in bathrooms and non-slip mats in showers can also help, along with using a cane or walker, if you need it.

For outdoor safety, wear shoes with good grip and low heels and be mindful of icy conditions.

“Many falls occur when rushing in cold weather,” Razak says, advising to give yourself extra time when travelling. Keeping walkways clear of ice and snow, using handrails and taking extra care when getting in and out of vehicles can also help reduce fall risks.

Razak adds that corrective wear, like eyeglasses or hearing aids, are also effective.

How can seniors boost their immune system during fall and winter?

Maintaining a strong immune system is essential for seniors, especially during the colder months when the risk of infections increases. Razak emphasizes that overall health is closely tied to immune function.

“The more healthy you are — the stronger, better rested, better nourished — you are, those are things that improve your immune system,” he explains.

Experts say seniors should be getting between seven and nine hours of sleep each night. Staying physically active and exercising as you age, as well as following a healthy balanced diet for longevity all contribute to the immune function. Specifically, nutrients like vitamins B and C, selenium and zinc play a role, Healthline reports.

Razak adds that managing chronic conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, is also crucial to maintaining your health. And, of course, so is staying up to date on vaccines.

What is the biggest health risk for seniors in colder months?

Infectious diseases such as COVID-19, influenza and RSV are major concerns for the upcoming winter, as these illnesses spread more easily in colder weather.

Razak also highlights the “critical” impact of isolation on seniors’ health, especially during the colder months.

“With Canada being a cold weather country, the days being shorter, the risk of infection… it can be very easy to get isolated,” and suffer from depression in the winter, he says. “Ensuring that you continue to have those lines of connection with people is very, very important.”

Seniors should find ways to stay connected, whether through virtual meetings, phone calls or safe in-person gatherings, to combat feelings of loneliness and maintain good mental health.

Otherwise, preventative health measures should be top-of-mind. Staying up-to-date on vaccines, reducing the risk of falling and maintaining social connections are all key steps seniors can take this winter.

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