5 Ways to Prevent Pneumonia in the Senior Years

Pneumonia is one of the leading causes of death in aging adults. The disease is characterized by rapid changes in the lung capacity, and it is often lethal. Bethlehem home care experts discuss a few simple ways older adults can lower the risk of developing pneumonia.

1. Understand the Common Symptoms of Pneumonia

Fever, chills, and coughs are some of the common symptoms of pneumonia to watch out for. However, there are several subtle signs your senior loved one is developing pneumonia, like confusion, dizziness, and general weakness. Older adults with Alzheimer’s disease face a greater risk of pneumonia as they may not be incapable of recognizing and reporting the warning signs. It is especially difficult to diagnose pneumonia in a senior with preexisting medical conditions, so pay close attention to your loved one’s overall health.

2. Maintain Good Hygiene

Minor respiratory issues, influenza, and even common cold can lead to pneumonia. Medical experts advise seniors to practice good hygiene to keep pneumonia at bay. Seniors should wash their hands with soap on a regular basis or use hand sanitizers. Dental issues can also lead to pneumonia, so seniors should take good care of their oral health. If your family members have cold, flu, or respiratory infections, you need to make sure your loved one doesn’t go near them.

3. Consider Immunization

Pneumonia in older adults is often caused by a class of bacteria called pneumococcus. The bacteria invade the blood stream, enter the fluids that surround key organs, and multiply rapidly. Seniors who get vaccinated against pneumococcus bacteria have a significantly low chance of developing pneumonia. Your senior loved one should consult his or her doctor before opting for any vaccinations.

4. Quit Smoking

Using tobacco products can harm your senior loved one’s health. Older adults who smoke regularly end up damaging their lungs. Cigarettes contain tar, a sticky black substance that accumulates in the lungs and reduces their oxygen absorbing capacity. Quitting cigarettes is one of the best ways to reduce tar accumulation in the lungs and prevent pneumonia from developing. Your senior loved one should consider nicotine patches and other alternatives to smoking, and he or she should consult a medical expert or a tobacco cessation specialist.

5. Remain in Good Shape

Pneumonia is a serious health concern, but it is also avoidable. Seniors can reduce their likelihood of developing pneumonia by making healthy lifestyle choices. Eating nutritious meals, exercising on a regular basis, and engaging in constructive hobbies can lower the risk of developing serious medical conditions.

In addition to making healthy lifestyle choices, seniors can stave off a variety of medical conditions and enjoy a high quality of life by opting for professional in-home care. Bethlehemhome care providers can help older adults mitigate some of the challenges associated with aging.

Miller John is a fun, adventure loving and professional blogger. He is a story teller and loves to help others find a better way to live. Currently he works with Home Care Assistance of Bethlehem