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, heart disease, and cancer. Nowadays, more than half a million Canadians have been diagnosed with it. Sadly, it is estimated, that the same number of Canadians have an undiagnosed case of COPD.

What is COPD?

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 coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, mucus, and a 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.

Keep the Senior Respiratory System Healthy!

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. To 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.

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

Many families prefer Comfort Keepers® when arranging senior home care services for a loved one in or around Vancouver, British Columbia. 

If you are concerned about the health and well-being of your aging loved ones, we can help with 24-hour care. Comfort Keepers Vancouver also provides home care services like respite care, overnight care, Alzheimer’s disease and dementia care, personal care, and more! 

Comfort Keepers® Vancouver Can Help with Companion Care and Interactive Caregiving™

Personal and empathetic care starts in the heart and allows us to meet our clients’ needs. Comfort Keeper’s philosophy is to elevate the human spirit, and our caregivers ensure your loved one experiences a better quality of life.

Trained caregivers help provide our senior clients with personal home care to help maintain the highest possible quality of life, keeping them happy and healthy at home. Our Interactive Caregiving™ delivers a system of care that addresses safety, nutrition, mind, body, and activities of daily living (ADLs).

Bring The Best Home Care Assistance for Seniors Right Where You Live with Comfort Keepers®

Comfort Keepers® Vancouver is proud to provide elder care in homes throughout Vancouver, keeping 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. 

Personal Care and Senior Homecare in Vancouver, BC

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.

Accredited and Quality Respite Care Available 24/7 for British Columbia Families

Accreditation Canada has awarded Comfort Keepers® Vancouver with Exemplary Standing. This designation is only achieved after an organization’s policies, procedures, and processes undergo a thorough evaluation by industry experts to ensure they meet or exceed the stringent quality standards set by Accreditation Canada for Home Care companies.

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