There are many benefits that come with getting older, but there are also health and wellness factors to consider. As we age, the body’s natural defences can become less reliable; as a result, seniors may be more susceptible to infections, including pneumonia.
Pneumonia is an infection that affects one or both lungs, and it can range from mild to severe. The additional steps that seniors take to protect their health can have long-lasting physical and mental effects, so prevention and prompt treatment remain important to maintaining quality of life.
Why Pneumonia is More Common in Seniors
Changes to the lungs as we age: As the respiratory system changes with age, seniors cannot always clear secretions from the lungs effectively. These secretions can move into the bronchial tubes and contribute to infection.
Weakened immune systems: A senior’s immune system may have a harder time fighting infection. Certain health issues can further reduce the body’s ability to respond, such as organ or bone marrow transplants, cancer treatment (including chemotherapy), or long-term steroid use.
Underlying health conditions: Conditions such as diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, and HIV can increase a senior’s risk of pneumonia, as can cystic fibrosis, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and bronchiectasis. Surgery can also increase exposure to infections that may lead to pneumonia.
Signs of Pneumonia
Symptoms can include coughing, fever, chills, shortness of breath, chest pain, green or yellow sputum produced during coughing, fatigue, and a sudden worsening of a cold or the flu.
Pneumonia Treatments
Typically, a physician will order a chest X-ray and/or blood tests to help determine whether a senior has pneumonia. Bacterial pneumonia is usually treated with antibiotics. If the infection is viral, an antiviral medication may be prescribed. In addition to medication, clinicians may provide fluids, oxygen, pain relief, and other medical support.
Reducing the Risk of Pneumonia in Seniors
Seniors should discuss pneumonia prevention with a physician or other health care provider to determine the most appropriate plan. Options to help reduce the risk of pneumonia include:
- Get vaccinated: Adults aged 65 and older should discuss annual influenza vaccination and pneumococcal vaccination with their doctor, since pneumococcal vaccine recommendations can vary based on age, medical conditions, and previous doses.
- Practice good hygiene: Wash hands regularly, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Don’t smoke, and take steps to quit if you do: Smoking harms many body systems and directly damages the lungs. People who smoke are at greater overall risk of pneumonia because the lungs’ defence mechanisms can become compromised.
- Practice a healthy lifestyle: Seniors should follow a physician-approved diet and exercise regimen. This can help strengthen immune function and reduce the risk of pneumonia.
Comfort Keepers Can Help
Whether clients are recovering from pneumonia or looking to reduce their risk, the care team at Comfort Keepers can help. Our caregivers can remind clients to take their medications, provide transportation to scheduled appointments, and support physician-prescribed exercise regimens and diets. Above all, our goal is to help clients find joy in each day, regardless of age or level of need.
To learn more about our in-home care services, contact your local Comfort Keepers office today.
References:
American Thoracic Society. “Top 20 Pneumonia Facts.” Web. 2018
Mayo Clinic. “Pneumonia -Symptoms and Causes”. Web.
Web MD. “What is Bacterial Pneumonia.” Web. 2016.
Aging.com. “What Causes Pneumonia in the Elderly?” Web. 2018.
American Lung Association. “Lung Health and Diseases: Learn About Pneumonia.” Web. 2018.
Everyday Health. “Pneumonia 101: What You Need to Know.” Web. 2019.
