With age, the body is more susceptible to certain chronic conditions and health issues that prevent them from the independent living at their own home that they are used to. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, is a condition restricts the flow of air and makes it quite difficult for the aging adult to breathe. Family caregivers who want to find a way for seniors to live at home with COPD may want to investigate hiring home care providers.
What is COPD and How Does It Affect Seniors?
COPD is a serious condition that leads to coughing fits, shortness of breath, coughing fits, wheezing, tightness in the chest, excess mucus production and extreme fatigue. It is a general term for the progressive disease of the lungs that includes chronic bronchitis, emphysema and some types of asthma. If it is not properly managed, it can lead to heart disease as well as further lung damage.
When an elderly person is already struggling with other chronic health issues that are common with age, such as diabetes, arthritis, or cardiovascular disease, dealing with COPD symptoms can be especially difficult and affect their quality of life.
Why Cant Seniors Live Independently with COPD?
This leads to other health issues that can restrict a seniors ability to remain independent at home. Suddenly, typical daily tasks like laundry, housekeeping, preparing meals and getting to a doctors appointment are extremely difficult for them. They run the risk of deteriorating health, poor nutrition and getting injured in an accident of some kind.
When an elderly person cannot take care of themselves, then others need to step in to help with those vital daily tasks around the house. Fortunately, there are arrangements that family caregivers and seniors can make that preserves the aging adult living in their own home.
Home Care Providers Can Assist Seniors with COPD
Home care providers are trained professionals with experience in assisting seniors with a wide range of physical and mental health issues, including COPD. They can help elderly adults get ready in the morning and take care of the home and meals during the day. Many will also transport an elderly adult to doctors appointment and on other errands. Home care providers can be scheduled as often as needed, making it beneficial for any family. Home care providers are also excellent companions who can spend time with the aging adult when they would otherwise be on their own.
Family caregivers also benefit from hiring a home care provider for their elderly loved one. Thats because they will feel at ease knowing that their aging relative is being cared for by a professional who will take good care of them. Seniors with COPD dont automatically need to look for alternative living options when they can hire a home care provider who can come to their home and help as often as needed.
If you or an aging loved one are considering homecare in Burnsville, MN, and the surrounding areas, please contact the friendly staff at CareBuilders at Home Minnesota. Call today 612-260-2273.