COPD or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease is a common condition that often affects seniors. As such, seniors living with COPD have special care needs in order to remain as healthy as possible. Here's a look at some things to consider:
Definition of COPD
COPD is a collective term used to describe chronic breathing disorders that limit airflow and cause difficulty breathing. This includes conditions such as emphysema, chronic bronchitis, and refractory asthma.
Symptoms of COPD
Some of the common symptoms associated with COPD include shortness of breath, chest pain or tightness, wheezing, and coughing. In some cases, COPD can also cause digestive issues, such as severe bloating and difficulty swallowing.
Non-Medical Care Needs for Seniors Living With COPD
These are some of the non-medical care needs required to keep your senior loved one comfortable:
Social Support
Seniors diagnosed with COPD need emotional support as they cope with their condition. This includes finding ways to stay connected, participating in activities that promote meaningful engagement and social connection, and providing assistance for daily tasks or errands when needed.
Nutrition
Managing nutrition is important for keeping COPD symptoms under control. Good nutrition helps maintain energy levels and supports healthy respiration. This can include planning meals, selecting appropriate foods, monitoring vitamin intake, developing eating plans tailored to specific health goals, and accessing dietary resources when necessary.
Exercise
Exercise can improve physical strength and breathing capacity by strengthening respiratory muscles in people living with COPD, so it's important to incorporate it into their daily routine whenever possible. Exercises such as walking or yoga may be recommended depending on a senior's individual level of conditioning or limitations imposed by other medical problems. You should check with your senior loved one's doctor before undertaking any new forms of exercise to ensure that your senior parent is healthy enough.
Stress Management
Stress management techniques, such as relaxation exercises aimed at helping seniors struggling with shortness of breath, can create better coping skills. When facing triggers, such as anxiety due to excessive coughing bouts resulting from acute attacks, these relaxation techniques can reduce stress and allow your senior loved one to feel better.
Safe Environment
It's important to create a safe environment for your senior loved one. Make sure they have all the necessary equipment, such as oxygen tanks and monitors, to help make everyday tasks easier. It's also wise to remove potential triggering elements from around the home, such as dust or pet dander.
Choose Senior Helpers Ann Arbor to Provide Support for Your Senior Loved On
COPD is a complex condition that requires thoughtful planning and assistance. The key to successful care management boils down to understanding your senior loved one's specific needs and adapting the plan of care accordingly in Adrian, Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti, Jackson, Dexter, or Hillsdale.
Senior Helpers Ann Arbor can provide compassionate support every step of the way as seniors living with COPD strive to stay healthy, safe, and as independent as possible in their daily lives. Contact us today to learn more about the services we offer.