If your parent suffers from emphysema, they may be dreading the warmer months of summer. That’s because the warmer temperatures can make breathing more difficult. When the weather is warm, the body needs more oxygen to regulate body temperature. The warm summer air causes airways in the lungs to constrict, and that makes it harder for air to pass through, worsening the symptoms of emphysema. Luckily, there are many things you and your parent’s senior care provider can do to help them manage emphysema symptoms and live more comfortably even when it’s hot outside.
Senior Care in Tamarac FL: What’s the Best Way to Manage Emphysema in the Summer?Water, Water, Water!
You’ve probably heard a million times how important it is to drink plenty of water every day. The reason you hear it so often is because it’s true! For a person suffering from emphysema, drinking plenty of water can help their body to regulate temperature more efficiently, thus reducing the need for additional oxygen. The extra fluids can also make it easier to clear excess mucus from the lungs. Encourage your parent to drink plenty of liquids throughout the day. If your parent is going on an outing with a senior care provider, be sure they bring a thermos of water or some bottles of water along.
Take it Easy
Obviously, overexertion in warm temperatures is a bad idea, particularly for someone with emphysema. Make sure your parent takes frequent rests in the shade and pace activity appropriately.
Plan Some Indoor Fun
When the weather is too hot, sometimes it’s best just to stay indoors. That doesn’t mean that your parent has to stay confined to their home, but it does mean activities should take place in air conditioned buildings. Outings to the library, a shopping mall, or a movie theater are good ideas on warm days.
Invest in Air Conditioning
If your parent’s home is not already air conditioned, purchasing a portable air conditioning unit to help control heat and humidity will be well worth the cost. Aim to air condition the most used rooms of the house, such as the living room and bedroom.
Stay on Top of Allergies
Pollen counts in the summer can make emphysema symptoms worse. Pay attention to pollen counts during weather reports and plan the day accordingly. Keeping the windows closed and using an air conditioner can help reduce allergens inside the house.
Keep Active
Although the summer months might make it more difficult for your parent to engage in physical activity outdoors, they still need to remain active to stay healthy. Find some alternative physical activities that can take place indoors, such as exercising along with a video at home or enrolling in an exercise class. Physical activity helps keep your parent’s lungs and body strong.
If your parent is not currently receiving senior care at home through a home care agency, you may find it useful to hire a home care provider to help take care of your parent with emphysema. A senior care provider can help by reminding your parent to take their medications, stay hydrated, help monitor the temperature inside the house, and take your parent on outings when the weather permits.
If you or a family member are in need of senior care in Tamarac, FL, call the caring professionals at Star Multi Care today at (954) 870-4770. Providing service in Boca Raton, West Palm Beach, Delray Beach, Boynton Beach, Weston, Southwest Ranches, Pembroke Pines, Cooper City, Lighthouse Point, and Wilton Manors.
Sources
https://lunginstitute.com/blog/preparing-for-summer-with-copd/
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