The Respiratory System: Age-Related Changes & COPD in Edmonton, AB

Edmonton Senior Health  |  February 18, 2020

The Respiratory System: Age-Related Changes & COPD in Edmonton

COPD in Edmonton | Did you know that after heart disease, cancer and accidents, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is the leading cause of death? In this day and age more than 500, 000 Canadians have been diagnosed with COPD while it has been estimated that the same number of Canadian citizens has the disease, but they are still not aware of it.

What is COPD?

COPD is a group of lung diseases, while the most common are emphysema and chronic bronchitis.  It progresses with age, and symptoms can include everything from constant coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath to coughing up mucus and tightness in the chest.

COPD is most common in adults that are 65 or older. Luckily, with some healthy lifestyle changes, seniors can minimize the risk of COPD.

It has been established by the Canadian Lung Association that smoking is the leading cause of COPD. Naturally, secondhand smoke is also a risk factor. In addition, it has also been suggested that there is a connection between air pollution and COPD.

To stay healthy and reduce the risk of this disease, seniors who smoke should talk to their health provider and take steps to quit. Also, older adults who do not smoke should do their best to avoid contact with secondhand smoke. If seniors living in a city where there are warnings whenever air pollution is high, they should make sure to stay at home during this time and avoid any outdoor activities if possible. To minimize the risk of COPD older adults should also avoid airborne irritants in the home.

With a healthy diet and regular physical activity, seniors are able to boost their health, enhance their overall well-being and improve their lung function. Every senior needs to be aware of the ways aging is affecting their respiratory system and learn how to reduce their risk of any related diseases.

To help seniors steer clear of further breathing complications, doctors may recommend getting vaccinations for both influenza and pneumococcal pneumonia.

Comfort Keepers Can Help with COPD in Edmonton

If you are concerned about the health and wellbeing of your aging loved ones we can help. Comfort Keepers®’ trained caregivers help provide senior clients with the highest quality of life possible to keep them happy and healthy at home. Our Interactive Caregiving™ provides a system of care that addresses safety, nutrition, mind, body, and activities of daily living (ADLs).

What’s more, our trained caregivers are selected with one specific quality in mind: empathy. Care that is empathetic is care that starts in the heart, and it allows us to meet our clients’ exact needs. Learn more about our unique service offering by contacting the Comfort Keepers Edmonton office.

If you live in the Devon, Edmonton, Sherwood Park, or Stony Plain area, contact Comfort Keepers at 780-465-4665.

Comfort Keepers Edmonton  is here to help you and your loved ones get the best care possible.

Share This Post: