Respiratory health is an important thing at any age. However, when it comes to seniors, being able to breathe can sometimes be a struggle, as aging lungs and other factors can make the simple process of taking a breath more difficult.
There are many reasons why lungs can begin to wane as we age. If you feel like your lungs are not in good condition and breathing is becoming more difficult, seeing your healthcare professional, like a doctor, can be one of the best things you can possibly do.
Aging Lungs
Even if seniors have no other conditions, like those mentioned below, the lungs will naturally age and weaken. This happens because the muscles that control the contractions of the lungs begin to get weaker as we age, thus making taking a breath more difficult. This coupled with other lung problems can really make for serious respiratory issues.
Asthma
In the United States alone, more than two million seniors live with asthma. While treatable, asthma can be a life-threatening condition under the right circumstances. Seniors will sometimes require a higher dose of asthma medication to ensure that it works. Basically, asthma is a respiratory condition marked by spasms in the bronchi of the lungs, restricting airflow. Asthma attacks can be cause by numerous things, like stress, smoke, and even vigorous exercise.
Smoking
Smoking, especially in your senior years, is not a good idea. Because age has already begun to weaken the power of the lungs, smoking will only make things worse. Smoking causes a huge assortment of problems with the body. Specifically, the lungs are affected by the smoke’s irritants and chemicals. Smoking also adds tar to the inside of your lungs, which can cause severe breathing problems. Smoking is one of the leading causes of senior lung problems in the world. Quitting is your best bet to ensuring your lungs are healthy and functioning to their best abilities.
Air Pollution
The pollution in the air around you can cause issues to your lungs, similar to smoking. Prolonged exposure to harsh airborne pollutants can cause a lifetime of negative effects on the quality of your lungs. People exposed to the air quality in places like mines, musty buildings, chemical plants, and more for their profession have an increased chance of developing lung problems. The outside world, on the other hand, is a different story. It’s hard to prevent breathing in car pollutants, factory pollutants, and whatever else may be in the air. A simple dust mask can help reduce your exposure to airborne pollutants.
Steps to Take to Strengthen the Lungs
Exercise
With exception to those that have asthma (see your doctor first), exercise can be beneficial to making the lungs healthier. The act of exercising can strengthen the lungs by adding not only an increased supply of fresh air, but also by working the muscles that contract the lungs themselves.
Quit Smoking
Quitting smoking, or if you don’t smoke, staying away from those that do smoke, can do wonders for your lungs. Not only will your lungs be in better condition, but your entire body will benefit from quitting.
See Your Doctor
Seeing your doctor on a regular basis can help make sure that something doesn’t go by unchecked for too long. A doctor can notice things about your lungs that you may not even be able to notice. They can provide you with information, advice, and medication to make sure that your lungs stay as healthy as possible.
Bonaventure Senior Living
At Bonaventure Senior Living, we have Retirement Perfected, Living Perfected, Dining Perfected, and Fitness Perfected. The best way to see for yourself is to Book-A-Tour today and discover how you can live life on your own terms. We specialize in Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care, that way, no matter what your current situation is, we have all levels of care covered if your needs ever change.
Independent Living
With Independent Living, we want you to enjoy Simplified Living, allowing you to have the freedom to do what makes you happy. Our Independent Living is designed to accommodate the exceptional senior lifestyle that you’ve earned. What’s even better, is that with Independent Living we offer whatever supportive services that you may need at any time you may need them. Now that’s Retirement Perfected.
Assisted Living
Assisted Living at Bonaventure Senior Living is simple: all the lifestyle benefits of our Independent Living, but with any extra support that you may need. Our philosophy is based on three simple things: choice, independence, and dignity. Now that’s Assisted Living at its finest.
Memory Care
Every senior is a unique person, and our Memory Care approach is no different. We tailor our Memory Care by connecting with family members and taking time to understand each person’s specific circumstances. This includes mental, emotional, and physical health. Our Memory Care creates an honorable and professional plan to make sure that each person lives their life to the fullest. That’s the way Memory Care should be.
