COPD In The Senior Population

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a lung disease that limits airflow to the lungs.  Typical symptoms include the following:

• constant cough
• excess mucus or phlegm
• shortness of breath
• wheezing
• difficulty breathing
• tightness in the chest

COPD is often under diagnosed, because it develops slowly and worsens over time.  Many seniors believe they have developed “smoker’s cough” or that it is normal to have shortness of breath as they age.  There are several risk factors associated with developing COPD in senior years.  These include smoking, environmental exposure to lung irritants (such as chemicals or dust) and genetic factors.

Your senior loved one should discuss the option of being tested for COPD if they exhibit the symptoms listed above.  There is no cure for COPD, but there are medications and life style changes that can be made to improve the symptoms associated with this disease.  Proper management of COPD can lead to fewer trips to the emergency room, a decrease in health care costs and less stress for the senior and their caregivers.

If your senior loved one suffers from COPD and needs help during the day, an adult day care may be a great fit.  Bon Vivant Adult Day Club is the premier adult day care provider located in Fenton, MO.  Our mission at Bon Vivant Adult Day Club is to ensure our members enjoy Good Living Longer.    We are licensed by the State of Missouri and welcome the opportunity to meet with you and your loved one to answer any questions you have about adult day care.  Please feel free to visit our website at www.goodlivinglonger.com or call us at 636-343-1600. 

Article by Beverly McKee, MSW, LCSW