Seniors living with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) may struggle to handle both medical and non-medical care tasks on their own. Their medical needs are best handled by a qualified doctor, but as their caregiver, it is imperative that you learn about the disease and how best to help them manage their non-medical needs.
What Is COPD and What Are Its Symptoms?
COPD is a progressive terminal illness that makes it difficult to breathe. It affects the quality of life of those who have it, and it can also lead to other complications. Such complications can include infection and even death. Seniors often find themselves in need of additional help with daily activities if they're living with COPD, particularly non-medical care needs that are separate from traditional medical care interventions.
4 Non-medical Care Needs for Seniors Living with COPD
Here's an overview of some critical elements of non-medical care that seniors living with COPD need to consider:
1. Social Support
Seniors living with COPD are often isolated or distanced from their families due to physical health difficulties that come along with the disease. It's vital for these individuals to continue seeking meaningful social contacts outside the home through senior centers, community events, and support groups so they don't feel alone during treatment or recovery periods.
2. Nutritional Support
Nutrition plays a major role in helping manage symptoms associated with COPD. An appropriate diet filled with lean proteins and fresh fruits and vegetables helps seniors stay energized throughout their day despite managing a chronic illness.
In cases when they lack appetite or mobility, seniors may require some assistance preparing meals on their own at home. They may also opt for products made by professional in-home meal preparation programs tailored towards those living specifically with COPD.
3. Exercise and Physical Activity
It is important for all individuals—and particularly for seniors facing long-term conditions like COPD—to consistently engage in exercise approved by their care provider. Breathing techniques that work to improve lung health are also worthwhile. Both will help maximize oxygen intake capacity while keeping muscles strengthened.
If they cannot handle much physical activity, then have them try simple chair exercises at home or water aerobics classes at a local fitness center if they're able. Any movement helps.
4. Financial Assistance
Last but not least, seniors should be reminded that there are financial resources available to help them. Obtain reliable information from reputable websites and resources as there are too many fake sites and scams out there that target seniors.
There are plenty of financial programs out there that can help seniors who are struggling. Help them apply to these programs when applicable, and ensure they are signed up for Medicare and have worthwhile insurance to help with the associated medical costs.
Connect with Senior Helpers Phoenixville
At Senior Helpers Phoenixville, we believe in providing premier care to those who need it, and that's true when it comes to elements of non-medical care for seniors living with COPD. We don't just focus on managing physical symptoms. We also uphold the overall wellness of an individual.
Connect with us today if you or your loved one is looking for support outside medical assistance throughout Norristown, King of Prussia, Phoenixville, Pottstown, Malvern, Collegeville, and Montgomery County.