The Caregiver Guide – Supporting Immune Systems During Flu Season

Each year, flu season brings a predictable wave of respiratory illness across the United States and beyond. For caregivers, this seasonal rise in influenza isn’t just a calendar event; it’s a time to be extra vigilant. Older adults and people with chronic conditions are especially vulnerable to flu and its complications, so supporting their immune systems and taking preventative steps can make a world of difference.

Here are key facts caregivers should know about flu risk and immunity:

• According to a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) article, people aged 65 and older account for between 70 % and 85 % of seasonal flu-related deaths and 50 % to 70 % of flu-related hospitalizations in the U.S. This increased risk is due in part to age-related declines in immune function.
• In another CDC article, It’s mentioned that, during the 2023–2024 flu season, an estimated 90 % of adults hospitalized with the flu had at least one chronic medical condition such as heart disease, diabetes, or lung disease — conditions that further weaken immune defenses.
• Lastly, the following is quoted from a Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services datasheet:

“CDC estimates that during the 2022-2023 season, flu vaccination prevented 6.0 million flu-related illnesses, 2.9 million medical visits, 65,000 hospitalizations, and 3,700 deaths.” 

The numbers make it abundantly clear: flu season isn’t “just a cold.” It’s a time to reinforce immune support in every practical way.

Why Older Adults Are More Vulnerable

As people age, their immune systems naturally weaken — a process called immunosenescence — which reduces the body’s ability to mount a strong defense against infections like influenza. Older adults also tend to have more chronic health issues that impair immune response. Because of this, flu complications like pneumonia, dehydration, and hospitalization are more common and more serious in older populations.

Core Preventive Measure: Vaccination

Annual flu vaccination remains the most effective single strategy to prevent severe flu outcomes and reduce complications. Even if vaccine effectiveness varies year by year, vaccines consistently reduce the risk of severe disease, hospitalization, and death, especially among high-risk groups like older adults and those with chronic conditions.

Caregivers should:

• Ensure loved ones receive this season’s flu vaccine each year.
• Help them access high-dose or adjuvanted* vaccines specifically recommended for people aged 65 and older, as these formulations often prompt a stronger immune response.
• Keep a vaccination record and reminders to track annual shots.

Vaccination isn’t perfect, but even partial protection can mean a milder illness and far fewer complications.

*       Adjuvanted vaccines are vaccines that have been mixed with an adjuvant, a substance that enhances the body's immune response to an antigen (like a virus protein) to make the protection stronger, longer-lasting, and sometimes allow for less antigen to be used.

Nutrition to Boost the Immune System

Good nutrition supports immune systems at every age, and even more so during flu season. A diet rich in vitamins and minerals helps maintain barriers against infection and supports immune cell function. Consider these nutrition basics:

• Fruits and vegetables: Citrus fruits, berries, leafy greens, and bell peppers provide vitamin C and antioxidants.
• Lean protein: Supports antibody production and cell repair.
• Zinc and vitamin D: Zinc (found in nuts, seeds, legumes) and vitamin D (rich in fatty fish or fortified foods) play key roles in immune responses and may reduce susceptibility to respiratory infections.

Encouraging balanced meals and small, frequent nutrient-dense snacks can be particularly beneficial if appetite is reduced during illness or with age. Consider using supplements to help fill nutritional gaps that are more common in older adults. However, be sure to consult a physician or dietitian, especially if your loved one takes medications or has chronic health conditions.

The Importance of Hydration

Proper hydration supports every system in the body, including immune defenses. Dehydration can impair the circulation of immune cells and slow toxin removal. Encourage regular fluid intake throughout the day — water, herbal teas, broths, or diluted fruit juices are all good choices.

Sleep to Recharge Your Immune System

Quality sleep is essential for robust immune systems. During sleep, the body produces and releases immune-supporting proteins and hormones. Aim for 7–9 hours of sleep per night and maintain a consistent schedule to help the body’s internal clock support immune rhythms.

For caregivers, establishing a soothing bedtime routine, such as dimming lights and avoiding heavy meals late at night, can make a big difference.

Physical Activity

Moderate physical activity enhances circulation and helps immune cells patrol the body more effectively. Daily walks, light stretches, chair exercises, or water aerobics (weather permitting) are excellent flu-season friendly activities.

Exercise also enhances mood and quality of sleep, both vital for overall health, so caregivers should encourage regular, attainable movement routines.

Hygiene and Environment Controls

Flu viruses spread through respiratory droplets and contaminated surfaces. Sound infection-prevention strategies help protect both caregivers and loved ones:

• Wash hands frequently for at least 20 seconds with soap and warm water.
• Disinfect often-touched surfaces like door handles, remotes, and phones.
• Encourage covering coughs and sneezes.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

These simple practices, when consistently applied, help slow the spread of flu and other respiratory infections.

Stress Management

Chronic stress suppresses immune function, making it harder to fend off infections. Caregivers often report high stress due to ongoing responsibilities, so finding time for stress-reduction strategies is vital. Techniques that support mental and immune health include:

• Mindfulness meditation or breathing exercises
• Gentle yoga or stretching
• Regular social interaction (in person or virtual)
• Time spent outdoors when possible

Reducing stress doesn’t just feel good; it yields measurable benefits for long-term immune resilience.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Even with vaccination and healthy habits, the flu can occur. Caregivers should watch for signs that require prompt medical evaluation:

• High fever that doesn’t come down with standard measures
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Chest pain or pressure
• Confusion or unusual drowsiness
• Dehydration (dark urine, dry mouth)

In older adults or those with chronic conditions, early antiviral treatment can reduce the severity of flu if started within 48 hours of symptom onset. 

Conclusion

Flu season doesn’t have to be an extra burden for caregivers. Taking proactive steps to give your loved one the best possible immune support doesn’t just protect them against the flu; it helps build overall resilience and well-being throughout the rest of the year.

At LL Medico, we strive to help caregivers lighten their burden by offering various support products such as supplements to help augment nutritional gaps and cold and flu treatments for symptom relief. And, when you visit our website, you’ll find we also have a comprehensive range of adult diapers since incontinence affects between a quarter and a third of adults over 65.  

Our range of products may be a little daunting for some but we’re very happy to provide advice and guidance on product selection. You can reach us by calling (855) 422-4556 or emailing support@llmedico.com.    

In the words of J.R.R. Tolkien, “It is not the strength of the body that counts, but the strength of the spirit.” While we can support the body through prevention and preparation, we must also have the patience, consistency, and determination to sustain our resolve in facing the added challenges of the flu season.