Our immunity gradually declines with age due to changes in the Thymus and other immune cells. 

The thymus that produces T cells, shrinks and is replaced by fat, and the body produces fewer new T cells, making it harder to fight off new infections and cancers. Additionally, chronic inflammation increases, further impacting immune functions. 

Scientist have found that a key organ retires at same time as we do- stopping the production of cells that are vital to good health. 

Professor Daniel Gray, from WEHI institute in Melbourne believes that adults who have depleted immune systems, needs years to recover their T-Cells or sometimes never do- putting them at higher risk of contracting potentially life-threatening infections for the rest of their lives. 

While research is looking at targeting therapy to improve immune system to increase our longevity, what else can be done.

As we age:

• 1)    Focus on a health lifestyle that includes a balanced diet 
  
• 2)    Regular exercise 
  
• 3)    Make sure you get adequate sleep, 7-9 hours per night 
  
• 4)    Stress management is a key component to improve our immunity
  
• 5)    Staying up to date with vaccination 
  
• 6)    Prioritize nutrient rich foods especially fruits and vegetable, consider adding
• garlic to your diet 
  
• 7)    Drink enough water to support your immune system 
  
• 8)    Limit alcohol and caffeine consumptions 
  
• 9)    Quit smoking 
  
• 10)    Consider supplement such as vitamin D, Zinc, magnesium and Omega-3’s 
  
• 11)    Consider taking a good Biome to improve your gut health 
  
• 12)    If you are struggling with good diet or have diabetes, make sure you see a
• dietitian to get a better nutritional balance 
  
• 13)    Consider using a Neti pot. Neti pot developed centuries ago in India, is a container that you fill with saline solution an use to rinse your nasal passages to relieve cold and flu symptoms. There have been studies done that this method can prevent upper respirator tract infections and worked for a multitude against common viruses. Fortunately, there is a fess nasal solution from pharmacies that  can do the same job and make it possible to rinse your nasal passages regularly. 
  
• 14)    Make sure you eat plenty Vitamin C and consider taking a vitamin C supplement