More than 25 million people throughout the United States are currently living with asthma. Each year more than 3,000 adults die from this condition. As a family caregiver it is important that you recognize that while many people believe that asthma is a condition of childhood or that people who have it develop it when they are very young, asthma can and does develop later in life as well. Seniors are at particular risk for respiratory illnesses such as bronchial asthma and can suffer from more serious consequences related to it, making it vital that you not only know how to recognize the condition but are able to adjust your care related to their asthma.
Some of the signs and symptoms of bronchial asthma include:
• Shortness of breath
• Coughing or wheezing that worsens when your parent is suffering from a respiratory illness such as flu or cold
• Chest tightness
• Pain in the chest
• Whistling sound when exhaling
• Wheezing when exhaling
• Difficulty sleeping that is caused by coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath
If your parent has asthma and they experience these symptoms, it may be an indication that their condition is worsening:
• Symptoms that have gotten more severe
• Experiencing symptoms more frequently
• Having a harder time breathing, even when they are not exerting themselves more
• More frequently needing to use an inhaler to quickly relieve their symptoms
Most people who live with asthma has particular triggers that cause their symptoms. Common triggers include exposure to environmental irritants such as dust, gas, and fumes, exercise, particularly when in cold or dry environments, or allergies such as hay fever or pollen.
Starting home care for your aging parent can be one of the best decisions that you can make for them in the course of your caregiver journey with them. An in-home senior care services provider will work with you to understand your elderly loved one’s individual challenges and limitations, and will be there with your senior on a customized schedule to ensure that they get all of the care, support, and assistance that they need, when they need it. This also ensures that you are able to give them the care that you can give them while feeling confident that they will be in good hands even when you are not able to be with them. The highly personalized services of a home care provider are designed to help your parent stay healthy, safe, comfortable, and happy while also pursuing a lifestyle that is as independent and fulfilling as possible as they age in place. If your parent is struggling with a particular health problem, this care provider’s support can be instrumental in helping them to handle the issue effectively and maintain their quality of life. This can include supporting them in making healthy lifestyle choices, offering reminders so they can stay compliant with their medications and treatments, and providing companionship and support to help them deal with the emotional aspect of this disease.
Source
http://www.aaaai.org/about-aaaai/newsroom/asthma-statistics
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/asthma/basics/definition/con-20026992
If You Or An Aging Loved One Are Considering Hiring Home Care Services in South Pasadena, FL, Please Contact The Caring Staff At Assisting Hands Home Care Today! 727-748-4211.
