The Senior Respiratory System: Age-Related Changes & COPD

Vancouver Senior Home Care  |  February 18, 2020

What Every Senior in Vancouver, BC Needs to Know About Changes in the Respiratory System & COPD

Senior Respiratory System | Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, also known as COPD, is one of the leading causes of death, behind heart disease, cancer, and accidents. Nowadays, more than half a million Canadians have been diagnosed with it, while it has been estimated that about the same number of Canadian citizens have it, but are still not aware of it. COPD represents a group of lung diseases, where emphysema and chronic bronchitis are the most common members. COPD progresses with age and it includes symptoms such as continuous coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing up mucus as well as tightness in the chest.

Due to its characteristics, COPD is most common in seniors. Luckily, with some lifestyle changes and preventive measures, older adults can reduce the risk of COPD and maintain their health.

According to the Canadian Lung Association, smoking is the most common cause of this disease. However, seniors who are often exposed to second-hand smoke are also likely to develop COPD. In addition, research also shows that there is a significant connection between air pollution and COPD.

To stay healthy and minimize the risk of COPD seniors who smoke should take steps to quit. Even non-smokers should do everything in their power to stay away from second-hand smoke. Avoiding exposure to air pollution can also benefit one’s health. Since a lot of cities issue warnings when air pollution is increased, when this occurs seniors should stay at their homes and limit their outdoor activities to a minimum. It is also recommended that seniors avoid airborne irritants in the home.

A well-balanced diet and regular exercise can greatly improve one’s lung function and boost their health. O stay vital seniors need to be aware of the ways age is affecting their respiratory system and learn how to reduce their risk of any related diseases or illnesses. To prevent further breathing complications, seniors can also get vaccinated for both influenza and pneumococcal pneumonia.

Comfort Keepers® is the Best Senior Home Care Provider in Vancouver, BC

Comfort Keepers® is the preferred choice for many families when arranging senior home care services for a loved one in or around Vancouver. If you are concerned about the health and well-being of your aging loved ones we can help with Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Care, End of Life Care, Respite Care, and much more! 

Comfort Keepers® Vancouver Can Help with Interactive Caregiving™

Comfort Keepers®’s 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).

Our philosophy is to elevate the human spirit and our caregivers will be there every step of the way to ensure your loved one has a better quality of life. Personal and empathetic care is care that starts in the heart, and it allows us to meet our client’s exact needs. Learn more about our unique service which offers personal care, companionship care, palliative care, and end-of-life care by contacting the Comfort Keepers Vancouver office.

Comfort Keepers® Brings You The Best Home Care Assistance Right Where You Live.

Comfort Keepers® Vancouver is proud to provide home care throughout Vancouver that keeps seniors safe in their homes. We provide home care for the seniors of Vancouver and the surrounding areas of Burnaby, Langley, Maple Ridge, and Richmond please call (604) 689-8609. 

Comfort Keepers® Vancouver has been accredited with Exemplary Standing with Accreditation Canada. Accreditation is an intensive process in which industry experts examine an organization’s processes, policies, and procedures against quality standards. To achieve accredited status, Comfort Keepers offices met or exceeded the rigorous standards for Home Care companies, as defined by Accreditation Canada. 

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