Holistic Ways for Older Adults to Alleviate Cold Symptoms

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While a cold typically lasts a few weeks, symptoms like nasal congestion, sneezing, coughing, and a sore throat can be especially problematic for seniors. Caregivers for senior loved ones can prevent lengthy bouts with the common cold by turning to natural remedies to avoid adverse medication reactions like drowsiness and fatigue. Here are a few to try. 

 

Garlic

The antibacterial and antiviral properties of garlic make it a tasty choice for easing cold symptoms. The allicin in garlic also opens nasal passages and removes toxins from the body. 

If your senior loved one needs help managing an illness or assistance with daily tasks, make sure you choose a top-rated provider of senior home care. Assisting Hands Home Care is here to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life in the golden years. 

 

Honey

Nutrients in honey, such as iron, magnesium, manganese, and bacteria-fighting enzymes, soothe irritated throats and reduce the life span of the typical cold. A few teaspoons of honey in a cup of herbal tea should produce results within a few hours for a senior showing early signs of a cold. 

 

Ginger

Ginger has strong anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties that make it a good natural remedy for reducing cold symptoms. A mixture of ginger powder, ghee (clarified butter), and jaggery sugar (a dark, coarse sugar) eases a runny nose when consumed on an empty stomach every morning until cold symptoms disappear. 

There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. Some seniors only require help with a few daily tasks so they can maintain their independence. However, those living with serious illnesses may need more extensive assistance. Luckily, there is professional live-in care Livingston seniors can rely on. Home can be a safer and more comfortable place for your loved one to live with the help of an expertly trained and dedicated live-in caregiver.

 

Chicken Soup

Homemade soup made with chicken and organic vegetables is loaded with antioxidants and essential nutrients. It’s this combination that makes this classic remedy effective for nursing a cold and naturally boosting senior immunity. 

 

Epsom Salt Baths

It’s believed that Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate) has natural detoxification properties that can speed up the healing process. A bath infused with this soothing salt can also help a senior relax and get a better night’s sleep, which also eases cold symptoms. 

Seniors can further reduce their odds of catching colds with a diet that includes a mix of foods with potential health benefits. Vitamin C–rich foods like blueberries and bell peppers may help with fever and general aches, chili peppers may loosen mucus, and the phytochemicals in onions may prevent a cold from turning into something more substantial, such as bronchitis. 

If you have a senior loved one who needs help maintaining a high quality of life while aging in place, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading provider of home care Livingston families can trust. Our caregivers help seniors focus on healthy lifestyle habits such as eating nutritious foods, exercising regularly, and maintaining strong social ties, and we offer mentally stimulating activities that can boost cognitive health and delay the onset of dementia. Assisting Hands Home Care will work with you to customize a care plan that’s just right for your loved one’s needs. Call us today to discuss how we can give you the peace of mind that comes from knowing your loved one is being cared for with professionalism and compassion.