Understanding Breathing Problems in Older Adults

It’s normal for breathing to feel a little harder as people get older, but not every senior ends up with significant breathing issues. Those who do have challenges, however, need all the support they can get. Unfortunately, seniors who struggle to breathe often also feel less comfortable, less mobile, and less healthy overall. The good news is that home care providers can help them understand their specific condition and what they can do to feel better.

Common Breathing Problems for Older People

There are many reasons why seniors might have trouble breathing.  One of the main reasons is that lung function naturally decreases with age. Essentially, the muscles that help with breathing become weaker, the chest wall stiffens, and the airways lose some elasticity. As a result, it is naturally harder to take deep breaths.

Long-term health problems also come into play, as many seniors struggle with chronic illnesses like COPD, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema.  Seniors with these conditions may have trouble breathing, cough more often, wheeze, and have less energy for daily tasks.  Additionally, heart problems, which are also more common as people age, can make it difficult to breathe.

Another issue that can worsen the ability to breathe is respiratory infections.  Older adults, especially those with weak immune systems or lung problems, can get pneumonia, the flu, or even a common cold more easily.

Finally, environmental factors, like being around smoke, poor indoor air quality, or allergens, can also make it hard to breathe.  Additionally, all these problems could make seniors feel tired, anxious, or like they can’t do as much as they want to.

Improving Breathing

As mentioned, some changes occur with age and are unavoidable, but there are many things that home care can help seniors incorporate into their daily routine to help their lungs stay healthy and breathe better:

• Practice Breathing: It may sound silly, but practicing breathing can make a significant impact. Caregivers can encourage seniors to implement breathing techniques, like pursed-lip breathing and diaphragmatic breathing, into their daily routine. Doing so can help them control the flow of air and strengthen the muscles used for breathing.
• Stay Active: Gentle movement, like walking, stretching, or low-impact exercise, helps keep seniors’ lungs healthy and builds endurance.
• Practice Better Posture: Sitting up straight or using pillows that support their back can help seniors breathe better.
• Avoid Things That Aggravate Breathing: Avoiding smoke, strong chemical smells, and dusty places can help seniors minimize breathing issues.
• Follow the Recommended Treatment Plan: Correctly using the inhalers and medications that have been prescribed to seniors is essential, especially when dealing with chronic breathing problems.

How Home Care Can Help

Trained caregivers can help keep an eye on symptoms, remind seniors to take their medicine, and help them with breathing exercises that have been prescribed.  They can also help seniors stay active by walking with them or doing light exercises at home. For seniors who have more serious limitations, caregivers can help with daily tasks, such as cooking or running errands, that might otherwise make seniors short of breath.

Breathing problems can be hard to deal with, but with home care by their side, seniors can feel better and more confident in their daily lives.

If you or an aging loved one are considering Home Care in Thomasville, NC, contact the caring professionals at TenderHearted Home Care today. Call us at (704) 612-4132