If you’re caring for a family member who is suffering from COPD, you are no doubt familiar with all the symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. As a caregiver and a loved one, your goal is no doubt to help the person have the best possible quality of life despite their living with COPD. While there is currently no cure for COPD available, it is treatable and there are things you can do to help.
There are several factors that help you lead a more rewarding life when living with COPD. One is to follow a daily regimen of exercise, which will help someone with COPD to build muscle strength and endurance, which can help them to breathe easier. Upper body exercises are essential for better breathing, which can allow them to more easily retain independence and perform daily activities. Lower body exercise, such as climbing stairs or walking, can also help with COPD. Activity can be broken up into small chunks through the day, as opposed to one long dedicated exercise session.
Another helpful tip is to take stock of the home they are living in, paying special attention to ventilation and air quality. If possible, windows should be open to boost ventilation, but make sure to close them when the outdoor air quality is poor or conditions are dusty. Air filtration systems and exhaust fans can also be of help.
Finally, a healthy diet can make sure someone with COPD has the extra calories and energy they’ll need to prevent and recover from chest infections.