COPD is a common health problem among adults in the United States. There are more than 15 million people in the US who have already received a diagnosis of this condition, and approximately 12 million more who are living with the condition but have not yet been diagnosed. As a family caregiver, it is important to recognize the potential risk factors for this serious condition so you can take meaningful steps to help your parent reduce their risk for COPD.
Some ways you can help your aging parent reduce their risk for COPD include:
- If your aging loved one smokes, encourage them to quit immediately. The longer a person smoked in their lifetime, the higher the risk of them developing COPD. Conversely, as soon as your senior stop smoking, their risk for developing the disease starts to reduce. Everyday they do not smoke is another step toward a healthier life moving forward
- Make sure your senior has the healthiest living environment possible. Air pollution is a major risk factor for COPD, and the vast majority of air pollution a person is exposed to in their lifetime is actually indoors. A large amount of this occurs in their own home, including chemical residues from cleaners, harsh paints and other home improvement products, dust, and more. Consider having your senior's duct system cleaned to remove contaminants, and deep clean the rest of their house to create a healthier environment to maintain
- Encourage your senior to make good lifestyle choices as they age. The stronger and healthier your parents body is, the lower their risk for developing serious health problems. Help them to make good choices such as eating a healthy, balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and staying physically active. This will help to keep their body stronger, support their immune system, and reduce their chances of developing the condition. Even if they do develop COPD, making good lifestyle choices and keeping their body healthier and stronger will make it easier for them to cope with the effects of the disease as they age
Simply because you're aging loved one is getting older does not mean they can't enjoy a healthy, active, fulfilling lifestyle as they age in place. Home care can help them. An in-home senior care services provider can be with your aging loved one on a customized schedule designed with your parent's needs and challenges in mind, but also while respecting the care you already give them. This means they always have access to exactly the care and support necessary to manage their challenges and limitations while pursuing as much independence, autonomy, and engagement with the world around them as is possible. This promotes a lifestyle that is more meaningful and enjoyable for your parent, and also reduces stress and anxiety for you. The result is better health, better well-being, and a better relationship for both of you.
If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring home care in Allison Park, PA, please call the caring staff at Home Helpers. Call today (412) 385-4286.