COPD, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, refers to a group of progressive diseases of the lung that restrict airflow over time. The American Lung Association estimates that approximately 24 million people throughout the United States are currently suffering from one of the diseases that falls under the term COPD. This can make a tremendous difference in their health and well-being, and diminish their quality of life. As a family caregiver it is important that you are able to identify the signs and symptoms of this condition so that you can ensure that your aging parent gets the medical attention and care that they need to handle it the best way possible.
Some of the signs and symptoms of COPD include:
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing
- Difficulty breathing during physical activities
- Tightness in the chest
- Excess mucus in the lungs that causes your aging parent to need to clear their throat first thing in the morning
- Chronic cough, possibly that produces mucus
- Cyanosis, or blue tint to the fingernail beds or the lips
- Increased frequency of respiratory infections
- Marked lack of energy or fatigue regardless of the amount of sleep that they get
- Weight loss that is not related to efforts to lose weight, particularly in the later stages of the disease
- Swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet
It is important to note that many people do not experience noticeable symptoms until they are already in the middle to later stages of the disease. Those who suffer from COPD may experience episodes, or periods when their symptoms are more pronounced.
If your aging parent has been diagnosed with COPD or is at elevated risk for this condition, now may be the ideal time for you to consider starting elderly care for them. An elderly home care services provider can be with your aging parent on a customized schedule designed not just to address your loved one’s COPD symptoms or risk, but their other individual challenges, needs, and limitations, as well as their desire for independence, activity, and engagement. This can help your parent to live a lifestyle that is fulfilling and enjoyable even as they deal with the consequences of their health conditions. This can include helping them to understand the health condition that they are dealing with as well as the instructions that were given to them by their doctor. They can then provide reminders to help them remain compliant with their medications and treatments, and encouragement to make the lifestyle decisions that are right for their disease and their individual needs. This care provider can also be a valuable source of support and monitoring for your aging parent. They can observe your parent’s symptoms and let you know if they see that your loved one is suffering from new or worsened symptoms so that you can make the decisions regarding their future healthcare that are right for them. As a family caregiver this can give you reassurance that your parent will be as safe, healthy, and comfortable as possible as they age in place both when you are able to be with them and when you are not.
For more information about how the caregivers at La Jolla Nurses Homecare can help your aging parents remain in their own homes, call 858-454-9339. We are a home care agency providing quality and affordable elder care in Coronado CA, and the surrounding communities.
Today we are the oldest and most experienced private duty agency in San Diego County.She saw a need for quality private duty home health care and she worked diligently to build an agency that filled that need.I am proud to say, her vision is carried on today with our dedicated staff.
I believe our tenure in the community speaks well for us.We have had the opportunity to be of service to countless interesting individuals, including local and worldwide celebrities.It is the people we care for that makes this a fascinating industry.Whether high profile or a more ordinary citizen, we are proud that thousands have entrusted us with their care or the care of their loved ones.Our Mission is to provide high quality, very secure and the most compassionate home health care.We believe that patients heal faster and are happiest when they can stay in their homes.”
- Four Providers Who Ease the Stress of Caring for a Chronically Ill Loved One - October 29, 2024
- Therapies Seniors May Need After a Stroke - October 22, 2024
- Keeping Psoriatic Arthritis from Triggering Other Issues - October 15, 2024
