Asthma is often perceived as a children’s condition, but it can also stay with patients for their entire lives or even be diagnosed in a person’s senior years. Effectively managing asthma promotes overall health and comfort at every age, which is why people with the condition should work closely with a health center to find a treatment plan that works for them. If you have an elderly parent with asthma, it’s important to help them manage their respiratory health. Here’s what you need to know. 

Ways to Help Older Adults Manage Asthma

1. Maintain a Healthy Diet

Obesity can exacerbate asthma. Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the severity and frequency of asthma symptoms. However, for some people, exertion can lead to attacks. As a result, seniors should focus primarily on maintaining a healthy diet. Specifically, an anti-inflammatory diet rich in vegetables and lean protein and low in processed, sugary foods will help to control the inflammatory agents that can increase asthma intensity. 

2. Leverage Technology

Anyone with asthma should keep their inhaler within reach at all times. Yet, individuals are now taking their inhalers a step further by coupling them with technology. Apps can work alongside rescue inhalers to assess symptom severity and make recommendations for whether to visit a health center. Of course, each individual should always use their personal judgment when deciding if a doctor’s visit is in order. If your parent doesn’t want to use an app, help them set up alarms on their phone as reminders to take their inhaler at the same time every day, if needed.

3. Minimize Known Triggers

Many people who have lived with asthma their whole lives are already aware of their triggers. If your parent has been recently diagnosed, however, have them track their behaviors to help pinpoint what could trigger an attack. Going outside when the pollen count is high and being around smokers or mold are some well-known triggers. If your parent experiences allergies, discuss options for working with symptoms with their health center to see if this could help control their asthma, too. 

If you have an elderly parent in need of expert medical care, contact Wolcott View Manor Health & Rehabilitation Center. This health center offers both residential and outpatient services, including a 20-bed Heart & Lung Center designed to reduce hospital re-admission rates for patients with conditions like asthma. Learn more about their pulmonary rehabilitation programs online, or call (203) 879-8066 to speak with a team member.