The rains bring cooler weather, but also infections, damp homes and slippery floors. Older adults tire faster and get sicker faster, so a few steps taken early help a great deal.
Key points
- Drink boiled or filtered water and eat freshly cooked food.
- Prevent mosquito breeding and avoid wading through floodwater.
- Keep floors dry and wear footwear with a good grip.
- Fever for more than two days, or signs of dehydration, need a doctor.
Common problems
- Viral fevers, colds and chest infections
- Mosquito-borne illness such as dengue and malaria
- Water-borne illness such as stomach infections, typhoid and hepatitis A
- Leptospirosis after wading through floodwater
- Skin and fungal infections in damp weather
- Falls on wet floors
How to prevent them
- Drink boiled or filtered water and eat freshly cooked food
- Avoid street food during the rains
- Do not let water stand around the house, and use nets or repellents
- Avoid wading through floodwater, and wash and dry feet if exposed
- Wear footwear with a good grip, and keep floors dry
- Ask the doctor about flu and pneumonia vaccines for older adults
Signs of dehydration in an older adult
- A dry mouth
- Passing little urine
- Dizziness
- Unusual sleepiness or confusion
See a doctor soon if there is
- Fever for more than two days
- Severe body pain, a rash or bleeding gums
- Repeated vomiting or loose motions with weakness
- Yellow eyes or dark urine
- Breathlessness or a chest infection that is not improving
Tests and home care
A doctor decides which tests are needed and when. We can arrange blood tests at home so the patient does not have to travel while unwell, and a doctor home visit when you need an examination. See also our guide to fever in older adults.
Frequently asked questions
Which vaccines help older adults in the rainy season?
Flu and pneumonia vaccines are often advised for older adults. Ask the doctor what suits your parent.
How can I tell dengue from a viral fever?
You cannot tell reliably at home. A doctor decides on tests and treatment, so do not delay a medical review if fever lasts more than two days.
Is it safe to use a dehumidifier or heater for damp rooms?
Good ventilation and keeping rooms dry help. Use any appliance as per its instructions and keep cords and floors safe.
Not for emergencies. Home healthcare does not replace emergency hospital care. In a medical emergency, contact emergency services or go to the nearest emergency department.