Caring for Elderly with Breathing Problems

In light of the recent Tall Volcano eruption and the spread of ashfall throughout Southern and Central Luzon, we are giving tips on how you can care for elderly parents with breathing problems.

Even without the ashfall and the danger of volcanic microparticles irritating their airways, seniors with breathing problems need to take extra precautions. And now with the Taal volcano at Alert Level 4, more measures must be taken. 

elderly breathing problems ashfall

Image source: Rappler.com

For now, let’s see how we can help our elderly parents cope with breathing problems.

Causes of Breathing Problems with the Elderly

Seniors with breathing problems would have less oxygen and therefore would often feel more tired. They may not be as sprightly or as active as others.

Here are some reasons why elderly people could have breathing problems:

  • COPD – Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder; wherein their tubes and air sacks are obstructed so there’s no adequate air supply circulating throughout their airways
  • Emphysema – the air sacs are damaged due to many reasons, such as smoking and pollution
  • Chronic bronchitis – the primary airways, the bronchial tubes, are chronically inflamed
  • Asthma – this is when the inside walls of the airways are inflamed and highly sensitive to irritants so it becomes narrow, restricting adequate supply of oxygen; this becomes worse because of irritants

To prevent these cases from becoming worse, such as developing infections, the following must be observed:

  • wash hands frequently
  • stay away from people who are sick to prevent contracting their disease
  • take a daily vitamin, especially those for boosting the immune system
  • eat adequate fruits and vegetables to build up the immune system
  • drink plenty of water
  • encourage them to exercise

What to do with your elderly parents during ashfall?

  • Make the stay indoors
  • Keep doors and windows closed
  • Listen to the radio for advice and information
  • If going outside, have them wear masks or a damp handkerchief to filter out volcanic micro-particles
  • Make them wear protecting clothing when going outdoors to prevent their skin from becoming irritated
  • Wear protective goggles when going outside
  • Discourage them from driving especially through roads with poor visibility

 

 

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