According to WebMD, lung diseases are among the most common medical conditions on the planet with tens of millions of seniors impacted in the United States, alone. Lung disease is not one singular malady. It refers to any number of medical conditions that limit the amount of oxygen that is transferred to and from the lungs. The most common and well-known lung diseases are tuberculosis, emphysema, lung cancer, asthma, COPD, chronic bronchitis, and pneumonia. The majority of lung diseases are the result of smoking, infections, and genetics.
Lung disease primarily impacts two areas: the airways and the air sacs of the lungs. The airways include the windpipe and bronchial tubes. Asthma, COPD, bronchitis, emphysema, and cystic fibrosis are all examples of diseases that impact the …show more content…
These are the structures responsible for the transfer of gasses to the blood and body cells. Pneumonia, tuberculosis, pulmonary edema, and most lung cancers are examples of diseases that impact the alveoli.
Regardless of the type of lung disease, the Centers for Disease Control continues to report that the number one thing most Americans can do to lower their risk of lung disease is to quit smoking and avoid second-hand smoke. In fact, the number one cause of lung cancer, COPD, and emphysema is smoking. Home care personnel can help your senior loved one find a smoking cessation program or plan that is right for them and provide the support they need to remain successful in their quest to quit smoking.
Seniors with lung disease likely find it hard to accomplish many daily living tasks since even minor exertion can leave them out of breath. Further, any bending or stooping can leave them breathless or dizzy which increases the risk of falls. For seniors who choose to live at home despite their physical hardships, home care personnel can provide assistance with may of these tasks and