Flu and Colds in the Elderly – How to Stay Safe and Warm This Winter

As the colder months arrive, many of us catch a cold or flu and spend a few days feeling run down. But for older adults, these common winter illnesses can have more serious consequences. At The Health Dispensary in Neath, we care deeply about protecting the wellbeing of older people in our community. Whether it’s helping to prevent illness through vaccination, supporting carers, or simply offering a friendly chat and delivery service, our goal is to keep everyone safe, warm and well this winter.

💉 Why Flu Hits Harder in Older Adults

For most healthy adults, flu causes fatigue, aches and a week or two of recovery. But in people over 65, or those with long-term conditions such as heart or lung disease, flu can lead to complications like pneumonia or worsening of existing illnesses.

That’s why the flu vaccine is so important. Even if it doesn’t completely prevent flu, it can make symptoms milder and reduce the risk of serious illness or hospital admission.

🧣 How to Protect Older Loved Ones

• Get vaccinated early – Flu season runs from autumn through March, so the sooner vaccination happens, the better the protection.
• Keep warm – Aim for a room temperature around 18–21°C, wear several light layers, and enjoy warm meals and drinks.
• Stay stocked up – Keep essentials like paracetamol, rehydration salts, and repeat prescriptions on hand. You can arrange prescription delivery for added peace of mind.
• Stay hydrated – Encourage regular drinks, soups, and herbal teas. Dehydration can make recovery harder.
• Offer a helping hand – Check in on neighbours or relatives who may be vulnerable. A friendly visit or a warm meal can mean the world.

🤝 Caring for Carers

Carers are the unsung heroes of every winter. Looking after someone who’s unwell or elderly can be exhausting — physically and emotionally. Protecting yourself helps you protect them too.

If you are a carer — whether paid or unpaid — you are eligible for a free NHS flu vaccination in Wales. It reduces your own risk of illness and helps keep those you care for safer. If you’re not eligible for a free NHS jab, we can still provide a private flu vaccine at a small charge.

Our team can also advise on holistic therapies like reflexology and acupuncture, which may help support relaxation, sleep and general wellbeing for carers under stress.

🏠 Keeping Warm and Well This Winter

Simple comforts make a big difference. Encourage older friends or relatives to have:

• A warm home and clothing
• Nutritious meals and plenty of hot drinks
• Emergency supplies and medication topped up

For those with chronic conditions like asthma or COPD, check they have spare inhalers or medication in case NHS response times are delayed during busy periods. Our prescription delivery service can help ensure essential medicines are always on hand.

🧡 Community Support in Neath

At The Health Dispensary, we’re always happy to help our community. If winter means making a few extra deliveries to keep people safe, well and warm, we’ll gladly do so. Our team can prioritise those in genuine need at times of cold weather or illness.

💬 In Summary

Flu in the elderly isn’t inevitable — with simple steps, care and community, we can protect one another. Vaccination, warmth, hydration and kindness all go a long way in keeping everyone safe through the colder months.

Written by Ali Sparkes BSc (Hons), MSc Econ, FRPharmS, IP
Medical disclaimer: This article is for information only and not a substitute for personalised medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional (like ours) about your own circumstances.