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More than 50 million Americans suffer from allergies each year. Seasonal sensitivities can be particularly hazardous for seniors who are unable to receive conventional treatments or have other medical conditions. Consult a senior care professional if you’re experiencing symptoms and use these helpful tips to get you through the season.

3 Tips for Seniors Suffering From Seasonal Allergies

1. Get Tested

Some people develop sensitivities as they get older and may not know why they’re experiencing allergy symptoms. An allergist specializing in senior care can provide proper testing to confirm your condition. Changes in elderly patients’ skin may make topical allergy tests difficult to apply. In this case, in vitro testing, which examines IgE levels, a type of antibody in the blood, may be ordered.

2. Remove Allergens

Once the allergens have been identified, take steps to remove them from your home and clean the air. If you live in an assisted living facility, ask your senior care providers to deep clean your room and ensure they only use allergy-safe sanitation products. Keep all doors and windows closed and use an air conditioner with a High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter or dehumidifier to keep airborne allergens out after you clean.

3. Monitor Pollen Conditions 

senior careMonitor pollen counts on your local weather forecast to plan and prepare for outdoor activities. Usually counts of 50 or less are deemed relatively low if you’re not severely allergic. When you venture outdoors wear sunglasses and a hat and shower immediately afterward to remove pollen spores from your hair and clothes. If you do start to experience symptoms, avoid over-the-counter antihistamines, which have strong side effects and may interact with other medications. Try consuming local honey or quercetin, a bioflavonoid found in cruciferous plant foods like broccoli and cauliflower, to help control allergy symptoms naturally.

 

If you’re a senior suffering from seasonal allergies and struggling to manage daily activities on your own, join The Vineyards at Concord in Frankfort, OH. They can provide you with the medical assistance to diagnose current symptoms and offer a variety of exciting programs to keep you active indoors. Learn more about their senior care services online or call (740) 998-4777 to speak with a member of their friendly and professional staff.

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