Elderly adults are more vulnerable to illness and infection than younger people because of immune systems that tend to be less effective. This means they are more likely to contract potentially serious illnesses and infections such as pneumonia. In fact, 30% of cases of pneumonia throughout the United States each year occur among older adults, and 85% of deaths from pneumonia occur in people over the age of 64. As a family caregiver, it is critical that you know how to care for an aging adult who is suffering from pneumonia so you can help them to get the most of their treatment and management, and recover in the best way possible.

Use these tips to care for a senior with pneumonia:

  • Encourage your senior to get as much rest as they can to encourage their body to heal and recuperate. Remember it can take a lot of time to fully recover, and your parent shouldn’t pressure themselves.
  • Encourage your senior to drink plenty of fluids. Not only will this support their immune system, but it will also help to loosen the phlegm in their lungs so it is easier to expel.
  • Never give your parent any over-the-counter medications, including cough medicine, without approval from their doctor. They might not be safe to use with other prescriptions, or might not work with their treatment options.
  • Give your parent medication reminders to help them stay compliant with taking their medications when and how they are supposed to take them.
  • Encourage them to eat a healthy, balanced diet to keep their body strong, and give it the nutrients it needs.

Elderly care can make a tremendous difference for a senior who has recently suffered pneumonia. Though the infection itself can clear up within a couple of weeks, it can take a month or more to fully recover from pneumonia, and the fully customized services of an elderly home care services provider can help your parent through this recovery. Managing tasks throughout the home such as laundry, dishes, and tidying up can allow your parent to rest and conserve their energy. Meal and snack preparation help them to get the nutrition they need, and companionship and support can help them to maintain better mental and emotional well-being throughout this time. As a family caregiver, knowing your senior has access to this care can help you to feel more confident, and relieve your stress as you focus on all aspects of your life.

If you or an aging loved one are considering elderly care in Eden Prairie, MN, and the surrounding areas, please contact the friendly staff at CareBuilders at Home Minnesota. Call today 612-260-2273.