Changes to the respiratory system are among the many changes that occur with age. It’s important for seniors to be aware of these changes and get the proper care when necessary because many of these changes can significantly impact their breathing and general health. For seniors who are aging in place, they can receive the support, resources, and care they need from skilled nursing.
Changes in the Respiratory System with Age
While no two situations are the same, the conditions below are some of the age-related issues seniors might see in relation to the respiratory system:
Reduced Lung Capacity and Elasticity: With age, the diaphragm and other breathing-supporting muscles weaken, which limits the lungs’ capacity to fully expand and contract. In addition, as lungs age, the tissues in the alveoli (small air sacs) and airways become less elastic, reducing lung capacity and decreasing the efficiency of breathing.
Diminished Mucociliary Clearance and Cough Reflex: Senior’s cough reflex loses its effectiveness with age, making it more difficult to remove mucus and debris from the airways. Reduced activity of the cilia, which are microscopic, hair-like structures that help in clearing mucus from the lungs, raises the risk of respiratory infections such as pneumonia and bronchitis.
Changes in Gas Exchange: The alveoli’s capacity to effectively exchange carbon dioxide and oxygen is also impacted with age. This could lead to lower blood oxygen levels, which may result in exhaustion, dyspnea, and a decreased capacity for physical exertion.
Increased Respiratory Infections: Seniors are more vulnerable to respiratory infections, such as the flu, pneumonia, and COVID-19, since their immune systems deteriorate with age. Asthma and COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) are two chronic illnesses that can increase their risks as well.
How Skilled Nursing Helps Seniors with Respiratory Issues
For seniors aging in place while managing age-related changes in their respiratory system, skilled nursing services can offer vital support. The following tasks are just a few of the ones skilled nursing can assist with:
Frequent Health Assessments and Monitoring: Skilled nurses are able to track vital signs, look for early indicators of respiratory problems, and periodically screen seniors for changes in respiratory function.
Breathing Exercises and Equipment: To improve lung function and oxygen intake, skilled nurses can offer respiratory therapy, which includes guided breathing exercises and chest physiotherapy. Additionally, they can introduce seniors to coughing efficiency strategies, which help open the airways and lower the chance of infection.
Medication Management: Skilled nursing can also help seniors manage their medications. Additionally, they can ensure seniors are using medications appropriately by teaching them on correct inhaler practices and keeping an eye out for any possible side effects.
Recommended Lifestyle Changes: To support respiratory health, they may also offer seniors advice on how to maintain a healthy lifestyle, such as reducing or stopping smoking, controlling weight, eating a healthy diet, and maintaining an active lifestyle.
Seniors’ health and quality of life may be impacted by age-related changes in the respiratory system, but these challenges can be successfully addressed with skilled nursing assistance. This not only allows seniors to remain in their homes as they age but also helps them breathe a bit easier.
If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring Skilled Nursing in Oregon City, OR, please contact the caring staff at Integrity In-Home Care. Call today at (503) 660-3755.
Sources:
https://courses.lumenlearning.com/atd-herkimer- biologyofaging/chapter/age-related-changes-to-the-respiratory-system
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/004011.htm
https://www.lung.org/blog/your-aging-lungs#:~:text=Ribcage%20bones%20become%20thinner%20and,can%20damage%20the%20lung%20tissue.