|
|
 |
lifestyle enhancements
There are some simple things you can do to make life more enjoyable,
healthy, and comfortable for someone with COPD. First of all, focus on nutrition.
Try to serve meals with lots of fruit and vegetables.
Diets rich in protein are also important for maintaining strength. Also, be sure
the person you’re caring for drinks lots of fluids—unless told not to by a
healthcare professional.
Exercising can improve
mood and strength. Take walks with the person you’re caring for. Speak with his
or her healthcare professional about creating a realistic exercise program. Encourage
him or her to exercise, even if it’s something as simple as walking around a chair
5 times a day.
You can do a few things to make the person you're caring for more comfortable.
It is sometimes more difficult for COPD patients to breathe when lying flat.
So if it makes the person more comfortable, try propping him or her up on pillows. If the person
is having trouble with coughing
and mucus, tap lightly on his or her chest and back. This can help dislodge extra
mucus. Be sure to talk with your healthcare professional about other ways you
can help the person be more comfortable.
Keep your loved one’s spirits up. If you get creative, you can find ways for
the person to enjoy the things he or she loved before COPD. For
example, if your loved one enjoys gardening, help him or her with an indoor
(or outdoor, if possible) gardening project. Read aloud, or provide books for reading.
Pets can be a great comfort, too. COPD can be
a frustrating illness in its advanced stages, so hobbies and activities can
make day-to-day life more enjoyable. Your healthcare professional may also have suggestions
about things to do.
|
|
|
