Visiting Angels, one of the nation’s largest in-home senior care providers, is working to protect the elderly from the flu. Weaker immune systems make seniors more vulnerable to the flu and that’s why up to 85% all flu related deaths and more than half of flu-related hospitalizations occur in people age 65 and older.
With more than 500 franchise locations, Visiting Angels caregivers can help seniors sanitize their homes, as well as run errands to high exposure areas, like the grocery store or shopping malls. Caregivers can even drive seniors to get their flu shot which is the best way to prevent the sickness.
“The flu can be deadly for seniors because they can develop pneumonia and other respiratory illnesses, so families have to be especially vigilant this time of year, “says Larry Meigs, CEO of Visiting Angels. “Our caregivers not only can keep a senior’s home germ free, but they can provide a peace of mind to relatives who live far away and cannot personally care for their elderly relatives.”
Visiting Angels caregivers can work in a senior’s home 24/7, if necessary. The service is customized to the senior’s needs. They usually help with bathing, dressing, planning and preparing meals as well as light housekeeping.