If you’re an adult struggling with asthma, you might wonder how you can better manage your condition. Fortunately, many programs and resources are available at senior centers in South Valley, NM, that can help golden-age adults deal with their asthma. This article will explore how a senior center can help those diagnosed with this condition.
Encourage Smoking Cessation
Smoking is a common cause of asthma. A study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology found that more than half of all people with asthma smoke. However, quitting smoking can help improve symptoms and quality of life for those with the condition.
In addition to encouraging residents to stop smoking, senior-friendly independent living communities also offer resources for those who want to do so, but need help finding effective strategies or programs. This includes connecting individuals with local support groups or providing information about medications that help make the process easier, such as nicotine replacement therapy.
Provide Immunizations and Flu Shots
Immunizations and flu shots are important for adults to maintain good health. Seniors can benefit from getting these immunizations at a senior center because they provide information on where to get the shots, what vaccines are available, and how to receive them. Most older adults have never been vaccinated for pneumonia, a common cause of death in older people. Getting vaccinated against pneumonia can reduce the risk of developing it by up to 50 percent!
When family members in their golden years are worried about their health, or they need help managing asthma symptoms, visiting a senior center is one way they can find out more about their condition and learn how best to manage it
Partner With Health Care Providers to Improve Outcomes
If you’re a golden-age adult with asthma, you should partner with health care providers to improve your outcomes. Healthcare providers can be doctors, nurses, pharmacists, or other medical professionals that can help golden-age adults with asthma by offering education and advice on how to manage the condition. For example, your doctor may work with you on finding the proper medication for your symptoms based on age and other factors. Your pharmacist may make sure you take medications at the correct times and in a way that doesn’t cause side effects. Working with these partners will help ensure your asthma improves over time!
Offer Education Sessions and Support Groups
Support groups can be valuable for aging family members with respiratory conditions. One reason is many challenges of living with asthma are unique to older adults and therefore don’t always get discussed elsewhere, such as in traditional doctor’s offices or among family and friends.
For example, you might have been a lifelong smoker but never knew it was unhealthy until after you were diagnosed with asthma. Or maybe your medication has side effects that are more troubling now than they were when you were younger, and no one knows how to deal with them. Talking about these things face-to-face will help you feel more confident about dealing with any challenges ahead of time so they don’t take a toll on your life as you get older!
Conclusion
As you can see, senior centers are excellent resources for people with asthma. If you have questions about the services described in this article, or want more information on your local senior center, please call them directly. You’ll be glad you did!
