Natural and Medical Ways to Boost Seniors’ Immune Systems

The fact that our immune system starts working slower and enters decline as we get older is well known. However, this information is not considered anything that we should put our attention on. The immune system is what protects our body, and that is why we need to take care of it. It is our first wall of defense against bacteria and viruses. It is also essential in preventing illnesses from developing into more severe conditions, such as pneumonia or even cancer.

Of course, there are ways to keep our immune system in top form even as we get older. Most people rely on medical interventions such as vaccinations, but there are also well known natural ways to boost our immune system. Here we are going to talk about some of them.

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Immunizations and Older Adults

We are going to start with vaccinations that are recommended by the National Institute on Aging (NIA). They are sorted by the way they should be taken, and here’s the schedule:

• Influenza – The best time of year to get your yearly shot of flu vaccine is in the early autumn. That would be right about now. Late September or early October is when you should aim to be vaccinated. This way you will protect yourself from the outbreaks of cold and flu.
• Pneumonia – This vaccine is one of the once-in-a-lifetime ones, which means one dose will be enough. The only reason you should receive it twice is if the first one was before you turned 55 years old.

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• Shingles – The only way to know just how painful shingles can be is to have them yourself or see someone close to you experience them. Older adults are at a higher risk of having them, especially if they suffer from another chronic condition. Once you receive this vaccine, you’re good to go without another one for five years.
• Tdap – This vaccine should protect you from tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis. It is highly recommended that you get one if you spend a lot of time in the company of infants and small children. This vaccine should be received every ten years.

Natural Immune Boosters for Older Adults

There are many ways for older adults to boost their immune system. It varies from exercising to probiotics. Below you have a couple that are recommended by doctors:

• Probiotics for the elderly – If you don’t know what probiotics are, you’re in the right place. They are natural supplements that contain bacteria which is healthy for our body. They can help seniors with inflammation and other similar conditions.
• Exercising – Working out is healthy regardless of your age. With regular exercise, you will help keep your immune system in balance. All you need is 30 minutes of activity at least five days a week. It can help you deal with infections and illnesses.

• Vitamins for older adults – The best way to get enough vitamins in your body is to maintain a healthy diet. The best way to do this is to consume all the vegetables and fruits you can get your hands on. The rainbow consumption of fruits and vegetables is what is recommended by doctors. By rainbow, they mean that you should pick fruits and veggies in various colors. Mushrooms are also a natural booster of the immune system, although they are technically neither fruit nor vegetable.

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