How to Help Your Loved One with COPD Avoid Exacerbations

By Geralyn DiGiovanni, Manager, Client Services | August 12, 2016 |

Caregiver in Ardsley NY

As a family caregiver to a loved one who has COPD, you might not think that you can do much to help prevent exacerbations. In reality, some of the things that you do can make a huge difference for your loved one. Try some of these ideas and see how they work for your loved one.

Keep up with Doctor’s Appointments and Vaccinations

Making sure that your loved one makes it to all of his doctor’s appointments is extremely important. Your loved one’s doctor may notice changes in your loved one’s breathing and lung function that he can adjust with a simple medication change. Also, your loved one’s doctor can make sure that your loved one is up to date with his flu and pneumonia vaccinations.

Practice Good Hygiene

Good hygiene is more important for someone with COPD than you might think. Germs that other people’s lungs can fend off easily may find your loved one’s lungs to be an easier target. It’s a good idea to do things like carry your own pen for your loved one to use, carry hand sanitizer for when you can’t wash your hands, and to wash your hands frequently, especially when you’re out in public.

Avoid Crowds, Especially During Cold and Flu Season

Crowds can present a big problem for a loved one with lung issues. With that many people around, germs can flow like water. When your loved one must be out in public, keep the hand sanitizer ready and make sure that your loved one keeps his hands away from his eyes, nose, and mouth.

Set up a Solid Sleep Routine

Sleep is an important part of a healthy immune system, especially for a loved one who has COPD. Help your loved one to set up a sleep routine that works for him. If he has trouble sleeping, work with your loved one’s doctor to establish a solution that allows him to get the rest that he needs.

Drink Plenty of Fluids

Water is important for everyone, but for a loved one who has COPD, it’s vital. Drinking plenty of water helps to keep your loved one’s body hydrated and can help to thin out mucus that might otherwise cause an obstruction in his lungs. If your loved one doesn’t enjoy drinking water, try flavoring it with a small amount of lemon or lime juice.

Educate your other family members about why you do some of these things so that they can help out, too.

If you or an aging loved one are looking for caregiver services in Ardsley, NY, call the friendly staff at The Perfect Home Care at (855) 855-5728. Call today!

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Geralyn DiGiovanni, Manager, Client Services

Manager, Client Services at The Perfect Home Care

Geralyn DiGiovanni has been marketing director of The Perfect Home Care since July, 2013. She’s responsible for promoting the agency by identifying and reaching out to market segments that align with the services offered by The Perfect Home Care. Among others, she works closely with geriatric care managers, elder care attorneys, and assisted living facilities. Her industry-specific experience includes multiple stints as a companion aide for seniors. She also has extensive experience in the publishing industry, where she worked as an account manager. “I love this industry and am passionate about working with seniors,” she says.

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