Sweet summertime is here! But for those who have seasonal allergies, getting outside to enjoy the sunshine and buzzing nature can be a struggle because of the high amount of pollen in the air. If your seniors is struggling to manage their allergies this season, Senior Care at Home is here with some help. There are several effective remedies that can provide your senior with some relief! Read on below to learn our favorite tips and tricks to make summer more enjoyable for your senior.
Go to the Drugstore
One of the easiest ways to get rid of allergies is to grab an OTC medication from your local drugstore. Look for antihistamines to cure sneezing, sniffling, or itchy throats. You’ll want a decongestant to unclog a stuffy nose. But before you give your senior any medication, double-check with their doctor or caregiver to make sure it’s safe for them to take.
Bonus Tip: For seniors who would prefer a drug-free alternative, a saline rinse can clear allergens from the nasal membranes to provide symptom relief. To soothe an aggravated throat, have your seniors gargle some salt water.
Stay In and Keep Windows Closed
If your senior likes to head outside during the summer for some exercise, they may have to reconsider during the start of the summer season if they want allergy relief. Instead, have them try an indoor workout. They should also keep the windows closed to prevent pollen particles from coming inside the home.
Wear a Mask Outside
If your senior absolutely has to go outdoors while the pollen count is high, they should be encouraged to wear a mask! Whether it’s to run an errand or do some landscaping, wearing an N95 mask can help minimize your senior’s exposure to pollen particles by 95%!
Determine if It’s Really Allergies
There is no symptom that should be overlooked during the COVID-19 pandemic. It’s best to be absolutely positive your senior is experiencing allergies and not a different illness. If your senior experiences any of the following symptoms, it’s time to call their doctor: shortness of breath, fever or chills, a cough, fatigue, body ache, headache, loss of smell or taste, sore throat or congestion, nausea or vomiting, or diarrhea.
Please feel free to reach out to our experts here at Senior Care at Home if you would like further guidance on how to help your senior manage their allergies this summer. We are here for you and ready to help!
