September 2026
Stay healthy and safe this cold and flu season
Cold and flu season can be frustrating and stressful – nobody likes getting sick. But for aging adults, catching the flu or a cold comes with greater risk.
Older adults are more likely to develop more serious illness or require hospitalization when they catch common sickness, so preventative care becomes more important. PACE Southeast Michigan Chief Medical Officer Dr. Steven Katzman recommends three easy things to keep yourself or the older adult in your life safe during flu season.
Get a flu shot
Especially for seniors, an annual influenza vaccine is the best tool for protecting yourself against a serious case of the flu.
PACE Southeast Michigan participants can receive a flu shot at one of our 10 health centers at no out-of-pocket cost as part of their PACE membership. Our compassionate, expert clinic teams keep plenty of flu and COVID-19 vaccines stocked in the fall and winter to ensure all of our participants can get one if they wish.
Wash your hands regularly
Dr. Katzman says something as simple as washing your hands with soap and warm water can also be a highly effective tool for staying healthy during cold and flu season.
Additionally, Dr. Katzman recommends reducing the amount of times you touch your nose, mouth and face during the day to keep germs from finding their way into your body.
If you don’t feel well, rest
Lastly, Dr. Katzman recommends taking it easy and staying home when you don’t feel well. Not only does this reduce the risk of spreading disease, but it gives your body necessary time to rest and recover.
PACE Southeast Michigan participants are also encouraged to come in and see their clinic team if they feel they need to be seen by a professional. Our teams will do everything they can to get you back on your feet as quickly as possible. For PACE participants, all clinic appointments come at no cost as part of your enrollment.
To find out if you qualify for PACE Southeast Michigan, click here or call us at 855-445-4554.