For the elderly, respiratory issues can be a significant problem. After all, our lungs are one of our body’s most essential organs. So what options do aging family members have if they’re dealing with breathing difficulties?
One option is to check out assisted living communities (ALCs). ALCs offer many benefits for your loved ones living with respiratory issues. Still, you must understand how these communities can help your loved one. In this blog post, you’ll learn how assisted living in Joshua, TX, helps older individuals deal with their respiratory issues.
Respiratory Issues and Seniors
Respiratory issues in older adults are common and can be very serious. While some respiratory problems are more common than others, all ALCs must screen golden-age adults for these conditions.
Respiratory issues arise when a person has difficulty breathing or their lungs are not working correctly. These problems include asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, and lung cancer, among many others. As people age, their bodies become less able to fight infections and illnesses.
A compromised immune system increases the likelihood of developing a respiratory issue such as pneumonia or influenza. This can leave older adults vulnerable to long-term complications like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This condition causes chronic coughing and wheezing due to inflammation of the airways leading into the lungs.
Available Personal Care Services
Senior-friendly independent living communities can provide a wide range of personal care services for aging family members with respiratory problems. For example, the nursing team can help with daily activities like bathing, dressing, and grooming or shaving. They may also assist with eating and drinking if your loved one is too ill to do so independently.
As you consider the options available to your loved one, ensure you understand what assistance the facility provides. Some communities only have nurses on hand during business hours; others offer 24-hour supervision from caregivers who live on-site. (This arrangement is called “live-in care”.)
Ask about shift schedules and how many shifts they have. That way, you know when each type of caregiver is present at any given time to ensure your family member has access to round-the-clock care if needed.
Assisted Living Communities Create a Healthy Indoor Environment
Assisted living communities do their best to create a healthy indoor environment for those who live there. They take steps to reduce the spread of germs, keep the air fresh and clean, and use special filters and cleaning products.
One way they do this is by keeping the community clean. This means that food preparation areas, dining rooms, and kitchens are always sanitary. Residents don’t have to worry about picking up germs from outside sources, such as public transportation or other places where crowds gather.
In addition to keeping everything clean inside the assisted living community, you can also take steps outside your community to stay healthy!
They Provide Special Assistance During Flu Season
The flu can be even more debilitating for aging family members with respiratory issues than for others. Helping your loved one stay healthy during the flu season is essential. Many healthcare providers recommend that older adults get the flu shot yearly. Fortunately, assisted living communities have professionals with the experience to help you manage your respiratory condition and keep it under control.
In addition to providing you with medication and special equipment necessary for treatment, they can also provide training on how best to manage your condition. That way, you can control your condition, and it doesn’t get worse over time.
Final Words
Hopefully, this article has given you some ideas about how to better care for your loved one with respiratory issues. Remember, if your aging parent has trouble breathing or needs assistance with their care, don’t hesitate to reach out to an assisted living community near you!
