Fall Wellness: Preparing for Cold and Flu Season with OTC Benefits

Prepare Before Flu Season Hits

Fall and winter bring unique health challenges for seniors — flu, colds, dry skin, seasonal depression, and cold-weather joint pain. Using your OTC benefit to stock up on preventive and treatment products before the season starts ensures you're prepared when illness strikes. Don't wait until you're already sick to get these products.

Immune System Support

• Vitamin C: Daily vitamin C supports immune function. While it won't prevent colds, studies show it can reduce the duration and severity of symptoms. Start taking it before cold season, not after you're sick
• Zinc lozenges: Zinc taken within 24 hours of cold symptoms may shorten the cold by 1-2 days. Keep zinc lozenges in your medicine cabinet so they're ready when you need them
• Elderberry supplements: Elderberry extract has shown promise in reducing flu duration and severity. Available as gummies, capsules, and syrups
• Hand sanitizer: Stock up before flu season. Use it after every public outing, especially after touching shopping carts, door handles, and payment terminals

Cold and Flu Treatment

• Multi-symptom cold medicine: Products combining decongestant, pain reliever, and cough suppressant treat multiple symptoms with one dose. Check for interactions with your regular medications
• Throat lozenges: Menthol or honey lozenges soothe sore throats and suppress coughs. Sugar-free options available for diabetics
• Chest rub: Mentholated chest rub (Vicks) applied before bed helps with nighttime congestion. The menthol vapors open airways and soothe coughing
• Digital thermometer: Monitor fever accurately. For seniors, even a low-grade fever (100.4F) warrants a call to your doctor

Dry Skin and Winter Care

• Heavy moisturizer: Switch to a thicker cream-based moisturizer in fall. Winter air — both outdoor cold and indoor heating — strips moisture from aging skin
• Lip balm: SPF lip balm prevents painful cracking and chapping. Apply multiple times daily and before bed
• Humidifier: Indoor heating dramatically reduces humidity. A cool-mist humidifier in your bedroom prevents dry throat, nose bleeds, and skin cracking overnight