As people age, their immune systems no longer function at optimum levels making seniors more susceptible to cold and flu viruses.
Gastrointestinal infections are also more common among the elderly.
Because the digestive system slows down with age, harmful bacteria from contaminated foods have more potential to multiply in the intestines of the elderly. Food that may not cause illness in young adults, could make an older person sick. In addition to exercise and proper diet, cleanliness and food safety are essential elements to a healthy lifestyle. Follow these tips from the Georgia-Pacific Health Smart TM Institute and stay healthy. It is particularly important to clean communal surfaces such as kitchen and bathroom countertops, coffee tables, phones, TV remote controls, doorknobs and light switches because they are frequently touched by everyone in your household.