Cold and flu season can feel like a yearly stress test—especially when you have an older adult at home. As we age, our immune systems may respond more slowly, and common illnesses can lead to bigger complications. The good news is that a few consistent, low-effort home habits can reduce exposure to germs, support breathing comfort, and make everyday life safer and easier.
This isn’t about keeping a “perfect” home. It’s about focusing on the cleaning routines that matter most for health—particularly for seniors and for families caring for elderly relatives.
1) Make handwashing easier (and more likely to happen)
Handwashing is still one of the best defenses against viruses, but the real-world challenge is consistency. Seniors may wash less often if the sink area is cluttered, soap is hard to reach, or the bathroom feels chilly or dim.
Simple habit: Set up “easy handwashing stations.”
- Keep soap and paper towels (or a clean hand towel) visible and within reach
- Place a small lotion nearby to prevent dry, cracked skin (which can invite irritation)
- Ensure the path to the bathroom is clear and well-lit, especially at night
If mobility is a concern, consider placing alcohol-based hand sanitizer at key locations (entryway, living room side table), but still prioritize soap-and-water whenever possible.
2) Disinfect the “high-touch five” daily
During cold and flu season, it’s not just what’s in the air—it’s what’s on hands. High-touch surfaces can quietly spread germs through a household, especially when multiple caregivers or visitors come and go.
Simple habit: Once a day, wipe down these five areas:
- Door handles (especially the front door and bathroom)
- Light switches
- Refrigerator handle
- Faucet handles
- TV remote / phone / mobility device handles
You don’t need harsh chemicals. Use disinfecting wipes or a household disinfectant that’s safe for the surface—just follow label directions for contact time (how long it needs to stay wet to work).
3) Create a “drop zone” to stop germs at the door
Shoes, bags, mail, and packages often bring germs into the home—and clutter near the entryway can also become a fall risk for seniors.
Simple habit: Set up a clean, organized landing area.
- A small table or basket for mail and deliveries
- Hooks for coats and bags (so nothing ends up on the floor)
- A spot for shoes away from the main walkway
- Hand sanitizer within reach
This reduces both illness exposure and tripping hazards in one move.
4) Keep the air comfortable: dust, vacuum, and humidify wisely
Many seniors are more sensitive to dry air, dust, and airborne irritants—especially if they have asthma, COPD, allergies, or sinus issues. Clean air supports better sleep and easier breathing.
Simple habit: Maintain a “breathing-friendly” routine.
- Dust with a damp cloth (dry dusting can spread particles into the air)
- Vacuum regularly, ideally with a HEPA filter
- Wash bedding weekly in warm/hot water if the fabric allows
- Consider a humidifier if the air is very dry (aim for 30–50% humidity to avoid mold risk)
If you use a humidifier, clean it frequently—dirty humidifiers can worsen air quality.
5) Wash linens with a cold-and-flu-season rhythm
Linens hold onto germs longer than most people realize—especially pillowcases, blankets, and throw pillows used during naps or couch time.
Simple habit: Use a simple wash schedule.
- Pillowcases: 2–3 times per week during peak season
- Sheets: weekly
- Frequently used blankets/throws: every 1–2 weeks
- Kitchen towels and bathroom hand towels: every few days (or daily if someone is sick)
If laundering is physically demanding, break it into smaller loads to avoid heavy lifting and reduce strain.
6) Keep the kitchen “low-risk” for illness and falls
The kitchen is a high-touch, high-traffic area—and it’s also where small messes can become slip hazards. For seniors, staying well-nourished and hydrated is essential, but food safety matters too.
Simple habit: Do a quick “kitchen reset” once per day.
- Wipe counters and handles
- Clean the sink (germs collect there fast)
- Toss expired items and check dates
- Sweep crumbs to reduce pests
- Immediately wipe drips on the floor, especially near the sink and fridge
A cleaner kitchen makes it easier to prepare simple, healthy meals and reduces the chance of slips.
7) When someone is sick: isolate germs without isolating the person
If an elderly loved one gets sick, the goal is to reduce spread while keeping them comfortable and connected.
Simple habit: Use a “sick-day setup.”
- Designate one bathroom if possible
- Use separate hand towels and a separate trash bag
- Keep tissues, wipes, and sanitizer within reach
- Clean high-touch surfaces twice daily
- Wash cups/utensils thoroughly and avoid sharing items
Most importantly: check in often, encourage fluids, and ensure walkways are clear—fatigue increases fall risk.
A note on getting help (without guilt)
These habits are simple, but they take consistency—something that can be hard when you’re caregiving, working, or managing your own health. Support with routine cleaning, laundry, tidying, and kitchen resets can make a meaningful difference during cold and flu season. Many families find that professional homemakers help keep the home environment healthier and safer—especially when an older adult is trying to remain independent at home.
A clean home won’t prevent every illness, but small, steady routines can reduce exposure, improve comfort, and make recovery easier if someone does get sick. Focus on what’s most effective, keep it manageable, and remember: “healthy home” beats “perfect home” every time.
