Florida’s weather and climate are unique from much of the rest of the country, which means that allergy season never truly ends. While other states see seasonal peaks, Florida residents face allergens year-round, with surges during the early months of the year and the traditional spring allergy season. With seniors already having an increased level of health problems, adding allergies into the mix is a dangerous combo.
Although allergies are a near-constant threat throughout the year, seniors should prepare for the worst season and make meaningful changes to their routines to protect their health. A Banyan Residence can assist seniors with whatever lifestyle adjustments to stay healthy and allergy-free this Spring season.
Why Allergies Are a Constant Issue in Florida
Unlike other parts of the country that have different high and low points for allergies, Florida’s climate allows many allergens like pollen, mold, and dust mites to persist. Some residents even joke that Florida’s allergy season lasts from January to December. Spring still brings a significant rise in pollen levels, but allergy sufferers in Florida may never experience true relief without taking preventative measures.
Just like typical allergy sufferers, seniors experiencing allergies may deal with symptoms like excessive sneezing, congestion, itchy eyes, and coughing. But more than just an inconvenience, allergies for older adults often have more serious consequences. Those with respiratory conditions such as COPD may experience worsened breathing difficulties, increased mucus production, and heightened risks of infections. Additionally, dealing with allergies can contribute to fatigue, making every daily activity more challenging and increasing the risk of other health concerns.
Allergy Season Considerations for Florida Seniors
In addition to the immediate health concerns that allergies can bring, there is another pressing concern for seniors: medication interactions. One of the most effective ways to manage allergy symptoms is by taking common medications like Claritin, and adding more medications into a senior’s routine may cause issues. While every situation is unique, it is possible that introducing an antihistamine can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and increased blood pressure, contributing to higher risks of falls and other complications. Plus, seniors with memory issues might struggle to take medications daily without outside assistance that helps them meet their daily needs.
While allergy season in Florida may seem unavoidable, seniors can take immediate steps to improve health outcomes:
Monitor Allergen Levels: It’s possible to check local allergy forecasts to plan outside activities around high pollen days, limiting exposure when necessary.
Improve Indoor Air Quality: Use air purifiers, regularly change HVAC filters, and keep windows closed to minimize indoor allergens.
Practice Good Hygiene: Simple things like washing hands and changing clothes after venturing outdoors can reduce allergen buildup.
Consult a Healthcare Provider: Before taking any form of over-the-counter allergy medication, seniors should speak with their doctor to make sure they won’t interact with existing prescriptions.
Remember, any significant concern should immediately be brought to your physician. If they already recommended antihistamines to address allergies and your condition worsens, it might signal that a different type of allergy remedy is better suited for your unique body chemistry. Plus, if conditions worsen, you need to make sure that introducing a new type of medication is not worsening your other known health outcomes.
Managing numerous health conditions is difficult enough, but the introduction of allergies can make everything difficult to manage. One way seniors can receive help is by residing at an assisted living and memory care facility, reducing their daily chore workload, and gaining a supportive local community. If you or a loved one are considering assisted living in Florida, contact A Banyan Residence today.
