For older adults with COPD, managing symptoms can be vital. Keeping symptoms in check can make daily life easier. Below, we will discuss tips for improving the quality of life for aging individuals with COPD.
Common Symptoms of COPD
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease is a classification of many lung diseases. As such, the individual symptoms and conditions of a diagnosis can vary. However, there are several common symptoms across COPD patients. These can include:
Coughing with mucus production
Wheezing
Shortness of breath
Chest tightness
Fatigue
Swelling in extremities
Sudden weight loss
Recurring respiratory infections (such as pneumonia or bronchitis)
Exercise and COPD
While exercise can, at times, make symptoms worse, it is a vital step in maintaining good health. Additionally, exercise is important for strengthening the lungs and making them stronger. Mild exertion can be important to coping with COPD. Walking around the block, stair exercises, and treadmill-walking can be a great start. Breathing exercises can also be a great way to improve lung function. Pursed-lip breathing and diaphragmatic breathing can help strengthen the respiratory system.
Always check with your primary care physician before starting or changing any major exercise plan.
Improve Ventilation and Air Quality in the Home
Better air flow and quality in the home can help reduce COPD symptoms. Be sure to pay attention to air quality warnings for your county. When air quality is good, consider opening windows if the weather allows for it. Replace air filters regularly. Generally, air filters should be changed every 6 months, or 3 if you have pets. Air purifiers in the home can also help improve air quality indoors.
Reducing indoor air pollutants can also be an important measure in making breathing easier. Cigarettes, fireplace smoke, and hairspray can all contribute to poor air quality. Limit exposure to these as much as possible.
Reducing Dust in the Home
Dust in the home can contribute to COPD symptoms. A clean, dust-free environment can promote healthy breathing. Where possible, reduce dust buildup. Reducing clutter in the home can also help limit dust buildup.
Dietary Considerations for COPD Patients
Healthy eating can make a real difference for older individuals with COPD. You need a diet full of fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds to help your body stave off lung infections. Limiting processed foods and red meat consumption can also help those with COPD. Since salt intake can affect breathing, limiting sodium is also important.
Additionally, COPD symptoms such as chronic coughing can contribute to extra energy use. Because of this, your diet needs to provide enough calories to keep up with your body’s calorie use. A high-nutrient, calorie-dense breakfast can make a real difference for those with chronic lung issues.
In-Home Care For Aging Adults With COPD
If your older loved one is living with COPD, it may be time to consider in-home care for them. A Certified Home Health Aide from Safe Harbor can help your loved one with exercise, healthy meal preparation, light housekeeping, and more.
Safe Harbor Healthcare Services does not provide medical, healthcare, or financial advice via articles. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only. It is not intended to provide and should not be relied on for advice.
Safe Harbor Healthcare Services has provided excellent home care on Staten Island since 1967. Our services help older and disabled individuals live safely and independently while giving their families the peace of mind they need. For more information, contact us or call (718)-979-6900.
