Food poisoning usually causes dehydration. It happens when the food you consume has been infected with bacteria or toxins.
In America alone, there are more than 75 million cases of food poisoning every year. According to the CDC, they cause around 5000 deaths annually. Some of the symptoms of food poisoning include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Severe diarrhea
- Stomach cramps
- Fever
- Fatigue
While food poisoning might not be a big deal for those who are younger, it may be deadly for those in their golden years. That’s because as your hair gets grey, your body changes, and your immune system is no longer as strong and robust as it used to be.
With a weakened immune system, you may feel weaker when you suffer from a stomach infection. Therefore, food poisoning, when not controlled immediately, may be fatal for older adults.
If you move to an assisted living in Pascagoula, MS, you’d not have to worry about these things. Here are some ways assisted living in Pascagoula MS prevents and treats food poisoning.
Eat Fresh, Healthy Food
You may want to make sure that you consume fresh and healthy food. Sometimes, it may not be a good idea to eat meat and poultry food items throughout the year. With dedicated dining programs, assisted living communities ensure that they provide guests with healthy, clean, and nutritious food all year round.
Store Food Items Well and Separately
To prevent contamination by leftover food items and bacteria, do not place cooked food on a plate or board that was previously used for raw meat.
In senior living, a professional team ensures that raw meats, eggs, poultry, and seafood are separated from ready-to-cook items. A separate cutting board for raw meat and seafood and one for fruits and vegetables are used.
Maintain Cleanliness and Hygiene
Make sure that you wash your utensils properly. You may use some warm water if you want. The fruits can be washed with clean water before consumption. It goes without saying that you must wash your hands before and after eating your meals.
In assisted living communities, washing up is left to the housekeeping professionals. This not only includes utensils and plates but daily housekeeping too. Apartments and amenities are kept sparkling clean so that residents will not risk any form of infection.
Tips to Treat Food Poisoning
Currently suffering from food poisoning? Here’s what you need to do:
- You will want to keep your body hydrated as your body gets rid of the toxins.
- You can drink some electrolyte-replacement drinks.
- Once your stomach settles, you can consume some non-spicy food.
- Take sufficient rest. You cannot travel when you have food poisoning.
- Avoid uncooked and raw food. Though it may seem tempting, you do not want to consume them.
Conclusion
Food poisoning is not fun for anyone. But for those in their golden years with weakened immune systems, food poisoning can be deadly. In a retirement community, the food provided to the residents must be healthy, fresh, and tasty. The team members must ensure that the food served is in a clean and hygienic environment.
That is why we take this matter seriously at SummerHouse Bay Cove!
