Understanding Asthma and How It Affects Senior Home Care

At Best Home Care, we try to focus on both sides of the home healthcare system: the client and the caregiver. This week we wanted to discuss the topic of seniors living with asthma and also share important information with caregivers on how this impaired-breathing condition can affect recipients:

• Asthma is typically diagnosed at a relatively young age; however, it can very often develop in later stages of a person’s life—sometimes even in their 70s and 80s.
• Symptoms can include coughing, wheezing, tightening in chest, or shortness of breath.
• Asthma creates greater risk for seniors, as it is far more debilitating and can even lead to respiratory failure if not treated properly.

• Seniors experiencing asthma symptoms should make an appointment with their physicians to develop a treatment plan.
• These treatment plans may include prescription medications and inhalers, as well as specific adjustments or changes to the person's lifestyle. Sometimes, even vaccinations for influenza and pneumonia are suggested to treat asthma.
• Some doctors may also recommend oral steroids; however, these medications should only be used as a short-term treatment option.

While this blog post focuses on seniors living with asthma and how it affects their quality of life, we understand that like other conditions, it affects everyone differently and at any age. That is why at Best Home Care, we never limit our services to a specific age group. We also help find quality home care for children in need of support, as well as individuals living with a disability.

For more information on people living with asthma, or for more information on Best Home Care’s services, visit our website, where clients and Personal Care Assistants (PCAs) have access to educational resources and information on quality homecare services.